Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

The Legal Assistance Centre urges stronger protection of minors amid Okahandja case

The Legal Assistance Centre says Namibia’s laws protect minors from sexual exploitation, but weak enforcement leaves many vulnerable. Head of Gender Yolande Engelbrecht says children under 16 cannot consent to sex, and adults involved should face statutory rape charges. She says the Okahandja case of a 16-year-old accused of killing her 23-year-old boyfriend highlights system failures and calls for stronger parental and community involvement to protect children.

Namibia’s youth urged to break the election silence

As Namibia gears up for the upcoming Local Authority and Regional Council elections, the national spotlight turns to young voters a majority in the population, but still among the least active at the polls.Why are so many young Namibians staying away from the ballot box? And what does this mean for the country’s future leadership, accountability, and development?To unpack this, Desert FM spoke to youth activist and former NYC board member KK Marenga, who shares why youth voices matter and how Namibia can inspire its young generation to take charge of their democratic power.

The growing dilemma of Angolan street kids in Namibia

The return of Angolan children to Namibia’s streets is once again sparking national debate.What began with compassion has turned to frustration, as young street vendors some as young as six raise tough questions about child protection, migration, and government responsibility.Desert FM spoke to Gerson Neumbo, Chairperson of the Children’s Parliament’s Education and ICT Committee, on how Namibia can protect the dignity and safety of all children involved.

Govt accused of making U-turn on free tertiary education

The Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) say the government has made a U-turn on its promise of free tertiary education. This comes after president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah clarified that ‘free education’ would only cover tuition and registration fees, excluding accommodation or transport. Desert FM speaks to NEFF deputy president Kalimbo Iipumbu on the issue.

Domestic violence kills 23-year-old father

The death of a 23-year-old man, allegedly at the hands of his 17-year-old girlfriend at Okahandja, has once again brought Namibia’s domestic violence crisis under scrutiny. Human rights activist Ndiilokelwa Nthengwe speaks to Desert FM on the topic, arguing that this tragedy reflects the deeper failures of a society that should have protected both the victim and the alleged perpetrator from reaching this point.

NEF Launches 2025 Local Authority Election Campaign, Focuses on Delivery and Solutions

The Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters, through Commissar for Communications Teresia Hamurenge, officially unveiled their candidates for eight local authorities, pledging to prioritize land delivery, housing, jobs, and community-focused solutions ahead of the November 26 polls.

Namibia’s Beef Exports Plunge 50% in First Half of 2025 Amid Market-Ready Cattle Shortage

Namibia’s Beef Exports Plunge 50% in First Half of 2025 Amid Market-Ready Cattle Shortage Caption: Namibia’s beef industry faces a sharp decline in exports, dropping by half compared to 2024, as farmers rebuild herds after drought and movement restrictions. Farmer Dylan Mukorole says the setback is temporary, with government support and improving conditions expected to help the sector recover and meet growing global demand.

Social Commentator Calls for Accountability Over GIPF’s Missing N$816 Million

Social commentator Olsen Kahiriri warns that the loss of N$816 million from the Government Institutions Pension Fund offshore investments raises serious questions about oversight and accountability. He urges a forensic investigation and says government employees should demand answers or consider alternative pension fund options.

GIPF under fire over N$815-million investment loss

Namibia’s pension giant, the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF), is facing backlash after reports of a possible N$815-million loss from offshore investments managed by South Africa’s TriAlpha investment management. Opposition leader Mike Kavekotora is calling for a forensic probe, citing weak governance and possible collusion between local and foreign players.

Ras Mubarak pushes for borderless Africa

Former Ghanaian member of parliament and pan-Africanist Ras Mubarak has hit the road on a 163-day, 40 000 km journey across 39 African countries to campaign for a visa-free Africa.Titled the 'Trans-African Tourism and Unity Campaign', the trip aims to push governments to scrap visa barriers and fast-track free movement under the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Mubarak says the goal is achievable within five years if leaders show real political will. Desert FM speaks to him about the mission, challenges, and vision for a truly united Africa.

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