Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Jacobus Henn calls for action as snakebite deaths persist in Namibia

We are tackling a matter that doesn’t often make headlines but affects some of Namibia’s most vulnerable communities snake bites.While snakebite fatalities are relatively low compared to road accidents or homicides the sad reality is that most of these deaths are preventable. Many rural communities still lack access to antivenom,trained medical staff and public awareness campaigns that could make a life or death difference. Desert FM spoke to Henn from the Snake Conservation Association of Namibia (SCAN) who is also part of the Namibia Snakebite interest group. He shares insights on why these avoidable deaths continue what can be done to prevent them and how Namibia can learn from other countries that have successfully reduced snakebite fatalities.

Sean Naudé warns as Etosha inferno drives wildlife into villages

In the Omusati Region police have issued a warning that more wild animals could begin straying into villages following the recent Etosha fire. The blaze scorched vast grazing areas leaving wildlife desperate for food and water and increasingly crossing paths with nearby communities. This has sparked growing concern not only for the safety of residents but also for the well being of the animals themselves. Desert FM spoke to Sheriff Sean Naudé to understand what’s unfolding on the ground and how authorities are preparing to respond.

National Democratic Party visits State House

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has continued her series of engagements with political parties represented in the parliament. She says the move is aimed at strengthening collaboration on key national priorities. Among those invited to the State House this week was the National Democratic Party, led by Martin Lukato. He discusses the outcomes of that meeting with Desert FM.

N$4 billion needed to expropriate over 240 farms

The government may need more than N$4 billion to expropriate 243 farms – collectively spanning over 1.1 million hectares – currently owned by foreign absentee landlords. With the land bill expected to strengthen government control over expropriation, the debate about cost, productivity and justice in land reform has resurfaced. To help unpack the implications of this plan, Desert FM speaks to land expert Benedick Louw.

Likuwa looking to retain councillor status

Tobias Hainyeko constituency councillor Christopher Likuwa is among Swapo’s election candidates for the Khomas region despite criticism from community activists about service delivery. Desert FM speaks to him about his performance so far and to hear what he plans to do differently.

Okakarara 2025: Vincent Karokohe on Vision, Priorities, and Community Development

Vincent Karokohe, SWAPO candidate for Okakarara’s 2025 Regional Council Elections, shares his vision for the constituency. We discuss his priorities, strategies for transparency and accountability, plans to engage youth and marginalized groups, and how SWAPO intends to drive long-term regional development. A must-listen for anyone following the upcoming elections and local governance.

Namibia’s Sex Offenders Registry: Perspectives on Safety, Justice, and Reform

We spoke with Mr. Shaanika Nashilongo, Director of Monica Gender Equality, Human Rights and Social Justice Organisation, about Namibia’s new national sex offenders registry. The discussion explores its role in enhancing public safety, deterring offenders, protecting victims, and balancing justice with rehabilitation. We also examine privacy concerns, potential gaps, and how civil society can ensure fair and responsible implementation.

Land Reform vs. Traditional Authority: Namibia’s Land Bill Debate.

Chief Zacharias Seibeb unpacks Namibia’s proposed Land Bill, highlighting traditional leaders’ concerns and the push for equitable land redistribution. We explore how the bill could impact communal authority, who stands to benefit, and ways to balance modern legislation with cultural governance.

Shaun Gariseb and residents dump waste at City of Windhoek offices in bold sewage protest

A growing sanitation crisis in Katutura has sparked outrage and renewed calls for action from residents who said they’ve been ignored for years.Earlier this week frustrated residents of Katutura Central led by community activist Shaun Gariseb staged a dramatic protest by delivering buckets of human waste to the City of Windhoek offices.The group says the move was a desperate attempt to draw attention to burst pipes, malfunctioning drainage systems and the unbearable stench that have plagued their community.Residents argue that despite Windhoek’s commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 which promotes sanitation and hygiene for all the city has failed to prioritise basic infrastructure in their area, leaving families exposed to serious health risks. Community activist Shaun Gariseb spoke to Desert FM saying residents want urgent repairs and lasting solutions to restore dignity and safety in Katutura.

Frederico Links urges transparency in government procurement practices

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has raised alarm over the government’s growing use of ministerial exemptions in public procurement.In its latest procurement tracker Namibia, IPPR warns that the trend could open the door to abuse, weaken accountability and erode public trust.The report titled 'Into the void exemptions erode good governance and public trust' cautions that these shortcuts risk undermining transparency and reviving past corruption patterns. IPPR Research Associate Frederico Links spoke to Desert FM saying stronger oversight is needed to keep procurement fair and transparent.

92 of 142