Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

PDM's Manuel Ngaringombe: Tribal unrest in Otjinene

Desert FM continues to look at the reported tribalism in Otjinene. We chat to Manuel Ngaringombe, Secretary General of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), to share the party’s view on the crisis and how leaders and citizens should respond.

Pula Depreciation Raises Regional Trade Questions

The government of Botswana recently made the decision to let its currency, the pula, depreciate at a faster rate this year. Questions have been raised on how that affects the economic stability of the region. Desert FM chats to economist Keith Jefferis on the technical workings of Botswana’s crawling peg system, the reasons behind the move and how it affects trade in southern Africa.

NaCC spokesperson Dina Gowases on alleged medicine price fixing

The Namibia Competition Commission (NaCC) has investigated over 200 pharmacies for alleged price-fixing and overcharging on medicines. The pharmacies are accused of inflating prices by as much as 50% above the actual cost. Here is more from NaCC spokesperson, Dina Gowases.

Michelle McLean: Miss Namibia 2025 and and promoting Namibian tourism

Michelle McLean actress, writer, model, and Miss Universe 1992 shares her thoughts on the newly crowned Miss Namibia and Miss Teen Namibia. She also discusses her recent appointment as the North American Business Officer for Gondwana Collection. Michelle highlights her efforts to promote Namibian tourism and attract investment to the country. She continues to make an impact through her long-standing philanthropic work with the Michelle McLean Children Trust.

Environmental expert Verushka Dumeni talks nuclear power

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has confirmed plans to develop nuclear power as part of the country’s civil energy programme, using its vast uranium reserves. While this move could offer a stable energy source, concerns remain about costs, safety, and long development timelines. At the same time, Namibia is already attracting global investment in green hydrogen, which is creating jobs and delivering quicker economic returns. Many believe hydrogen offers a more immediate, sustainable path though nuclear could still play a role in the long-term energy mix. However, questions remain about whether nuclear power is the right path, especially in a nation also investing heavily in green hydrogen as part of its energy mix. History has shown the devastating risks associated with nuclear power, as seen in disasters like Fukushima and Chernobyl. Elsewhere, in countries like Iran, nuclear development has sparked global suspicion and even conflict. So, is Namibia’s nuclear ambition a wise step or a risky diversion? To unpack this, we are joined by environmental expert Verushka Dumeni.

Stretch Combrink calls for help to relocate The Living Desert Snake Park

The Living Desert Snake Park in Swakopmund, home to nearly 70 animals — 95% of them snakes, has been served with an eviction notice, forcing them to either relocate or shut down entirely by February 2026. Known for its education, outreach, and conservation work, the park plays a key role in helping the public understand and respect Namibia’s reptilian wildlife. But now, the owners, Stretch Combrink and Angela Curtis, say they urgently need help from the public and business community to secure a new, suitable and affordable location before time runs out. Joining us now is Stretch Combrink, co-owner of the Living Desert Snake Park, to tell us more about their current situation — and how you, the listener, might be able to help keep this unique piece of Namibia’s biodiversity education alive.

Robin Lewis speaks to us about Numinous Expeditions

We bring you a story of courage, purpose, and life-changing impact — one that begins with a promise made in a hospital bed and stretches across the African continent, saving lives and inspiring hearts along the way. We’re talking about Numinous Expeditions, the incredible initiative founded by Jolandie and her partner, Robin Lewis. What started as a recovery journey after a bone marrow transplant for a rare condition — Fanconi Anemia — quickly turned into a humanitarian road trip across Africa. Armed with a converted work truck named Betsy, they’ve delivered help to animal shelters, supported community clinics, and most notably, launched Matches on the Map, an initiative that has already resulted in a successful life-saving stem cell match — right here in Southern Africa! Joining us now is Robin Lewis, co-founder of Numinous Expeditions, to talk about the heart behind this journey, the road they've travelled, and the impact they're making along the way.

Dimbulukeni Nauyoma on Namibia being listed as the 7th most expensive African country to rent a home

According to new rankings released by Nairametrics using data from Numbeo, Namibia has been listed as the seventh most expensive African country to rent a home in 2025, surpassing several larger and more densely populated nations. Despite having one of the lowest population densities on the continent, urban hubs like Windhoek, Walvis Bay, and Swakopmund are feeling the squeeze as demand for housing climbs — pushing rental prices higher and placing pressure on working-class households. Joining us now to unpack the figures and what they mean for everyday Namibians is Dimbulukeni Nauyoma, former board member of the Rent Control Board and a long-standing advocate for housing justice and affordability.

LPM's Duminga Ndala shares her take on the goal to transform Usakos

A new Memorandum of Understanding signed between Telecom Namibia and the Usakos Town Council promises to transform the Erongo town into Namibia’s next smart city. The agreement outlines plans for cutting-edge ICT infrastructure, high-speed connectivity, and digital transformation inspired by the Oranjemund smart city model. But is this ambition realistic for a town as small and economically constrained as Usakos? Critics say the idea is aspirational but disconnected from pressing on-the-ground realities like housing, employment, and basic municipal service delivery. Joining us in giving her take on this is Duminga Ndala, leader of the Landless People’s Movement’s Youth Command.

Vincia Cloete shares her thoughts on the NDP6

Recently, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah officially launched Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan, a roadmap for the country’s development over the next five years. The president announced that NDP6 will be matched by an implementation plan and all ministers will now align their performance agreements accordingly. Corporate governance expert and legal consultant Vincia Cloete explores the critical role of governance in this regard

140 of 145