Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Race to NBC chief

The race to lead the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) has attracted close to ten candidates from media leaders to corporate executives, spokespersons, statisticians and former journalists. The position will be left vacant after Stanley Similo’s term ends. Former NBC director general Ben Mulongeni speaks to Desert FM about what type of candidate is needed to lead the organisation.

Unlocking Namibia’s SME Potential: The Case for More Venture Capital

Namibian SMEs have huge potential, but funding remains a challenge. Businessman and author Jose Kahuna explains the barriers to venture capital and how businesses can become investor-ready to drive growth and job creation.

Government revives plans for a new national airline

Namibia is preparing to take to the skies again with plans to launch a new national airline, although it won’t carry the Air Namibia name. Speaking to Desert FM, works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi outlined the progress made so far, when the airline is expected to launch, whether former Air Namibia employees could be reinstated, and if the government plans to purchase or lease aircraft. He confirmed that the government is moving forward with establishing a sustainable national carrier aimed at strengthening regional and international connectivity.

Silent call merge feature sparks privacy concerns

Growing concern has emerged over a call merging feature referred to by some users as the “silent call merge” function. It reportedly allows a third party to join an ongoing phone call without notifying the original participants. Digital technology expert Nupresh Soni warns that such a function could expose users to serious privacy risks and potential violations of their constitutional right to privacy. However, MTC spokesperson Erasmus Nekundi has clarified that the feature is not part of MTC’s network services, but rather a built-in function on certain mobile devices. Nekundi stresses that the company remains committed to protecting customers’ privacy and encourages users to review their device settings for enhanced security.

Graham Hopwood on Petroleum Act amendments

Acting mines minister Frans Kapofi motivated the petroleum (exploration and production) amendment bill 2025 yesterday, saying it will strengthen oversight and ensure transparency in the oil sector. Some observers have raised concerns about centralisation and accountability. Executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research Graham Hopwood shares his thoughts with Desert FM.

Justice minister accused of worsening magistrates' strike

Minister of justice and labour relations Wise Immanuel has approached the High Court seeking an urgent interdict to declare the magistrates’ strike illegal. Critics say this blurs the line between the Executive and the Judiciary. Among those raising concern is Landless People’s Movement parliamentarian Eneas Emvula who speaks to Desert FM to discuss the matter further.

Minors awaiting trial detained alongside adult inmates

A recent parliamentary oversight report reveals that minors awaiting trial are still being detained alongside adult inmates in some of Namibia’s correctional facilities and police holding cells. This is despite the country’s legal framework strictly prohibiting the detention of children with adults. To unpack the human rights and legal implications of this, Desert FM speaks to chief advocate at the Office of the Ombudsman, Ingrid Husselman.

Namibia Rethinks Waste at GreenCycle Expo

We spoke to founder Ms Toini Kauluma about the Rethink Waste GreenCycle Expo 2025 at Wanderers Sports Grounds, which brings together innovators, businesses, policymakers, schools, and community groups to explore turning waste into resources and building a circular economy.

Nautoro Outlines Vision for Omaruru

As the 2025 regional council and local authority elections approach, Omaruru residents consider who will lead the constituency. We spoke to Roger Nautoro, Popular Democratic Movement candidate and former Omaruru mayor, about his plans if elected. He highlighted past achievements, including senior citizens’ water exemptions and housing electrification, and outlined future priorities in infrastructure, education, safety, and community engagement to drive growth and accountability in Omaruru.

Councillors Push Back Against Bill Limiting Local Powers

Councillors across Namibia are raising concern over a proposed bill they fear could strip them of authority. We spoke to Okahandja councillor Betheul Tjaveondja, who says while some clauses are useful, the bill risks centralising power and weakening local governance.

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