Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Shelter foundation pulls Gobabis deputy mayor from council

The Right to Shelter Foundation of Namibia has withdrawn newly sworn-in Gobabis deputy mayor Dina Fillemon as its representative on the Gobabis municipal council over alleged misconduct. Speaking to Desert FM, secretary general Wynand Lukas says the move has sparked legal, political and community debate.

Police warn about festive season crime spike after weekend robberies

Several robbery cases were reported at Klein Windhoek, Cimbebasia and Wernhil Shopping Centre over the weekend. Windhoek City Police spokesperson Marceline Murapo speaks to Desert FM about the incidents, festive-season crime concerns, and how residents can stay safe.

SWANU’s Roger Karamata Links Youth Unemployment to Low Voter Turnout

Roger Karamata, SWANU candidate and Youth League secretary, says frustration from high youth unemployment is keeping young Namibians from participating in elections.

Kavango East Residents Rally for Mbangu’s National Council Seat

Patrick Kashera, organizer of a peaceful demonstration in Rundu, says residents want Paolo Mbangu reinstated to the National Council after an internal SWAPO directive blocked his return.

Ganja Users of Namibia Push for Cannabis Legalisation

General Secretary of the Ganja Users of Namibia, Boro Ndungula, discusses why the current drug law violates constitutional rights, and why they want cannabis legalised.

Unemployment drives declining youth voter turnout in Khomas

New data show that Khomas constituencies with the highest unemployment rates recorded the lowest voter turnout, with participation in some areas dropping to the mid-20s. In the Tobias Hainyeko, Moses ||Garoëb and Samora Machel constituencies, the figures reveal growing political disconnection among young and economically struggling residents. Desert FM speaks to youth activist Armando Pieters about why many young Namibians are opting out of voting and how civic engagement can be revived.

Experts warn weak systems undermine Namibia’s fight against corruption

As Namibia marked International Anti-Corruption Day at Gobabis on Tuesday, concerns resurfaced about the country’s ongoing struggle to tackle corruption effectively. Despite repeated scandals and major financial losses, weak laws, slow implementation and limited protection for whistleblowers continue to hinder accountability. Desert FM speaks to political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah about what these shortcomings mean for the country and what must change.

Low voter turnout tied to high unemployment in Khomas constituencies

New Khomas Regional Council results show a strong link between unemployment and voter turnout, with constituencies like Tobias Hainyeko, Moses //Garoëb and Samora Machel – where joblessness nears 50% – recording the lowest participation. In contrast, Windhoek East, with unemployment at just 6.6%, delivered the region’s highest turnout. Desert FM speaks to sociologist Ellison Tjirera about what this trend means for political engagement, civic trust and Namibia’s democracy.

Anne Hambuda’s ‘Iniquity’ brings a gritty Windhoek thriller to life

Journalist and filmmaker Anne Hambuda makes her literary debut with ‘Iniquity’, a thriller set in Windhoek’s nightlife and centred on the double life of entertainment mogul Anthony Belo. The book blends mystery, romance and crime, offering a vivid, cinematic look at the capital’s club scene. Desert FM speaks to Hambuda about her creative process and whether Namibia is ready for more writers in commercially vibrant genres.

Teachers union raises alarm over GIPF’s N$1.5 billion investment losses

The Government Institutions Pension Fund has confirmed nearly N$1.5 billion in investment impairments since 2008, triggering concern among members. Teachers Union of Namibia secretary general Mahongora Kavihuha says the repeated losses and lack of transparency highlight serious governance shortcomings. He shares what the write-offs mean for pensioners and why trust in the fund is fading while speaking to Desert FM.

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