Desert FM 95.3

Economist Rodney Hoaeb warns that rising living costs, expensive borrowing and Namibia's reliance on imports could worsen the country's economic outlook. He is calling for urgent economic interventions, greater investment in alternative energy and stronger local production to reduce vulnerability to global shocks.

IPC president Panduleni Itula has criticised the government's handling of Namibia's rising cost of living and the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. He says economic mismanagement and inadequate preparedness are placing households, farmers and the country's beef industry under further pressure.

A report from Unicef says 12 child sexual assault cases were reported in the Kunene region between January and September alone, with shocking details of incest and abuse perpetrated by biological fathers and close family members.

Joining the show to unpack this crisis is youth advocate and Children's Parliament member Gerson Neumbo, who offers a child rights perspective on the breakdown of community protection. Neumbo highlights the severe gap between Namibia's progressive policies on paper and the real-world implementation in remote rural areas.

With the 2026 MTC Windhoek Fashion Week officially launching from 4 to 7 November in Windhoek, Desert FM’s Jane Kandedu catches up with Alvaro Mukoroli, spokesperson for the event, to preview what lies ahead for Namibia's premier style showpiece.

Mukoroli outlines a dynamic four-day programme, starting with an industry mixer and model contract legalities masterclass, followed by a cultural runway night spotlighting traditional attire from the Zambezi region.

Diplomatic commentator Pius Duinaski is calling for urgent diplomatic intervention to protect Namibia’s beef exports amid the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. He says Namibia must engage international partners and use its diplomatic missions to safeguard trade relationships and the country’s reputation as a trusted beef supplier.

The National Organisation of Parents in Education is urging Tramford to allow students with outstanding tuition fees to sit for their examinations. President Paulus Hawanga says financial challenges should not rob students of valuable academic opportunities, calling for greater engagement between parents and educational institutions.

Vetaruhe Kandorozu has raised concerns that the Bank of Namibia's FMD loan relief measures could leave vulnerable farmers behind due to strict eligibility requirements. He also warns that continued interest accumulation could increase farmers' financial burden despite the repayment breaks.

Inspired by his upbringing in rural, economically challenged households, Kaangundge shares how he and Swanu Youth League secretary general Roger Karamata launched the charity drive to restore confidence, dignity and pride to vulnerable families. Highlighting that social welfare extends beyond just food and shelter, Kaangundge explains how the campaign identifies vulnerable households across Okakarara, Otjiwarongo and Windhoek to ensure children and elders feel dignified within their communities.

Following the tragic weekend car crash that claimed seven lives – as reported on the front page of The Namibian – Desert FM is joined by entertainment journalist June Shimoshili to honour and reflect on the life of Afro-pop and Afrobeat star Joseph Simson (33), also known as Nally.

Dylan Mukoroli details the devastating ripple effects on Namibian livestock farmers and major meat processors, highlighting the return of blocked export containers from the UK and the financial strain of mandatory 30-day quarantine feeding routines.