Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Questions raised over village leadership and community presence

Across Namibia, village headmen and headwomen play a vital role in communal life, from land allocation to dispute resolution and the preservation of custom. However, concerns have emerged where some leaders do not reside full-time in the communities they serve. Speaking to Desert FM, Ondonga Traditional Authority secretary Frans Enkali outlines the roles, responsibilities and expectations of traditional leaders at village level.

New education pathway opens TVET route from Grade 9 to university

The Cabinet has approved a new national education pathway that allows pupils to enter the technical and vocational education and training system from Grade 9 and progress to university-level qualifications, including doctoral degrees. Speaking to Desert FM, Namibia National Students Organisation president Dorthea Nangolo says the move expands alternative education routes, but concerns remain around access, funding, quality and long-term outcomes for students.

Omusati steps up flood preparedness ahead of rainy season

Recurring heavy rains have caused flooding, damaged infrastructure and claimed lives in northern regions, raising concerns about disaster readiness and early warning systems. Speaking to Desert FM, Omusati governor Immanuel Shikongo outlines preparations for the rainy season, community protection measures and lessons learnt from past floods.

Cabinet opens new education pathway from Grade 9 to doctoral level

The Cabinet has approved a new national education pathway allowing pupils to enter the technical and vocational education and training system from Grade 9 and progress through to university-level qualifications, including doctoral degrees. Speaking to Desert FM, Students’ Union of Namibia board chairperson Bernard Kavau says the move marks a major shift in how Namibia values vocational education, skills development, and second chances for pupils.

Nestlé infant formula recall reaches Namibia

A global recall of certain Nestlé infant formula products due to possible cereulide contamination has reached Namibia after authorities confirmed that affected batches were exported to the country. Speaking to Desert FM, paediatrician Dr Steffen Bau outlines the health risks to infants, warning signs for parents and the immediate steps caregivers should take.

Free tertiary education plan raises readiness questions

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s announcement that registration and tuition fees at public institutions will be abolished this year has sparked debate around funding, infrastructure, staffing and university readiness. In an interview with Desert FM, University of Namibia (Unam) spokesperson Simon Namesho discusses what the policy could mean for Unam and what students can realistically expect in 2026.

San chiefs recognition delays raise concern

Out of 13 San chiefs in Namibia, only five are officially recognised, leaving many without access to state support as applications dating back to 2022 remain unresolved, largely due to land ownership requirements. In an interview with Desert FM, San Chiefs Council of Namibia secretary general Naledi Uiras explains why recognition matters and how these delays continue to affect San communities.

Namibia’s Children at Risk: Spotlight on Growing Child Neglect

Child neglect in Namibia is real and devastating, yet often goes unnoticed. Acting Chief Social Worker Mwalengwa at the Ministry of Gender and Child Welfare highlights the causes, challenges, and support systems available, and urges parents and communities to play a vital role in protecting children.

NWR concerns put spotlight on tourism standards

Namibia Wildlife Resorts, which manages key destinations such as Etosha, Sesriem and /Ai-/Ais, is facing growing public criticism over service delivery, ageing infrastructure and environmental management, raising concerns about Namibia’s tourism image. In an interview with Desert FM, Hospitality Association of Namibia chief executive Gitta Paetzold discusses the implications for the wider hospitality sector and Brand Namibia.

Parents called to support pupils ahead of NSSCO results

As the 2026 Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary Level results are set for release next Tuesday, education minister Sanet Steenkamp has urged schools, teachers and families to provide calm support and guidance to pupils during this emotionally challenging time. Speaking to Desert FM, Paulus Hauwanga, interim president of the National Organisation of Parents in Education, highlights the crucial role parents and communities play in supporting young people regardless of their results.

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