Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Funeral Undertakers Harness Technology to Serve Communities

Renard Geiseb, founder of Official Funerals and Tombstones, explains how digital tools, social media, and live streaming are transforming Namibia’s funeral industry, making services faster, more accessible, and inclusive for families.

Westmont teacher launches calculator drive to support pupils

Many pupils at Westmont High School in Otjomuise are struggling with accounting and mathematics due to a lack of access to calculators. Nearly 80% of these pupils are from disadvantaged backgrounds. Speaking to Desert FM, accounting teacher Viktoria Hukuete-Shifeta tells about her “Donate a Calculator” campaign, appealing to the public to help provide scientific calculators for pupils in need.

Namibia ranks lowest in youth entrepreneurial interest

A new Afrobarometer survey shows that only 19% of young Namibians would choose to start their own businesses. This is the lowest level of entrepreneurial interest among 38 African countries. Speaking to Desert FM, United Democratic Front youth leader Reinhold Gaseb reflects on what this reveals about Namibia’s economy, youth policy, and the future of work.

SA bids for 2028 AFCON with Namibia, Botswana as Co-Hosts

South Africa has confirmed its bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with plans to include Namibia and Botswana as co-hosts. Speaking to Desert FM, former Namibia Football Association secretary-general Barry Rukoro weighs in on what the bid could mean for Namibia, the challenges around stadium infrastructure, and whether the country is ready.

Experts warn of deeper strains on Namibian marriages

Namibia recently recorded 111 divorces in a single day at the High Court, with Windhoek and Oshakati showing the highest figures. Experts believe this indicates growing strain on marriages across the country. Speaking to Desert FM, couples and family therapist Mara Mberira unpack why marriages are breaking down. She points to material expectations and a lack of emotional preparedness as key factors.

Otjomuise Police scandal investigated

Allegations of misconduct within the Namibian Police are under investigation. This follows claims of abuse of confiscated goods and the alleged reselling of drugs at the Otjomuise Police Station in Windhoek. Speaking to Desert FM, former police reservist Moses Kairimuti says he raised the concerns about the alleged wrongdoing before his dismissal. Police have confirmed an internal investigation is under way.

Child neglect crisis deepens in Namibia

A troubling picture of child neglect is emerging in Namibia, with more than 3 300 children recorded as neglected over the past two years and many suffering in silence. Speaking to Desert FM, children’s advocate Ingrid Husselmann discusses the drivers of the crisis, including unemployment, substance abuse and family breakdown and what must change to better protect vulnerable children.

Oshikoto tops child neglect cases

The Oshikoto region recorded the highest number of child neglect cases in Namibia since 2023. This raises serious concerns about child protection in the area. Speaking to Desert FM, regional governor Sacky Kathindi outlines the causes of neglect, accountability gaps, and measures being taken to safeguard children.

UN closes repatriation file but refugees disagree

The United Nations says all repatriation funds for former Namibian refugees were fully used and accounted for, declaring the matter closed. However, former refugees camping outside Swapo headquarters say key promises were never fulfilled, with their spokesperson Aina Angula speaking to Desert FM.

Analyst warns of committee overload slowing government delivery

Political analyst Rui Tyitende says Namibia’s government has become overloaded with committees, advisers and task forces. This results in duplication, confusion and delays in service delivery. Speaking to Desert FM, he made the remarks following Swapo’s revival of its think tank and the president’s appointment of multiple presidential task forces.

50 of 142