Desert FM 95.3

The Next Level event is happening this Friday, bringing young talent and live performances to the stage. Performers say the experience is not only about showcasing their skills, but also about building confidence and growing through performance.

A former NDF member says he discovered he was allegedly recorded as deceased while trying to access his benefits at Old Mutual. Silas Shatika says the matter has left him without access to his money and contributed to him living on the streets, with the allegations now being investigated.

The Affirmative Repositioning is taking the appointment of Gerson Sindano as ECN chairperson to the High Court, arguing that the process was unlawful and unconstitutional. AR says its objection is not personal, but is aimed at protecting the integrity and independence of the electoral body.

Namibia continues to face a worrying suicide crisis, with men accounting for the majority of recorded suicide cases.

Police figures show that 124 suicides were recorded between January and March 2025, 108 of them being men.

Mental health advocate Lesley Shetukana says masculinity norms, stigma around mental health and a tendency among men to suffer in silence are contributing to the high numbers.

More than 15 000 pensioners affected by the government’s verification exercise are expected to have their outstanding payments finalised by October.

Gender equality and child welfare minister Emma Kantema-Gaomas told the National Assembly on Wednesday that 15 785 pensioners were affected after concerns were raised over outdated beneficiary information.

The minister said 10 660 pensioners have since been reinstated and are receiving their grants, while the remaining cases are still being processed.

Activist Julius Natangwe says the delays have affected entire families who rely on pension grants for basic needs such as food and school necessities.

PDM president McHenry Venaani says the approval of Gerson Sindano as the next ECN chairperson is eroding public confidence in Namibia’s electoral system, citing concerns over the appointment’s constitutionality and Sindano’s impartiality. Venaani says the opposition is considering legal options and will closely monitor the ECN’s conduct ahead of future elections.

Windhoek City Police spokesperson superintendent Marceline Murapo says driver behaviour, including speeding, unsafe lane changes and trying to beat traffic lights, is contributing to crashes at the capital’s major accident hotspots. Murapo is urging motorists to slow down at intersections, avoid distractions and wait for the traffic light to turn green before proceeding.

South African comedian Dillan Oliphant says audiences attending the Hook Comedy All Stars this Saturday can expect plenty of jokes, laughter and a live experience that cannot be replicated online. Oliphant, making his first comedy appearance in Namibia, says he is excited to meet Namibian audiences and share the stage with comedians from across the region.

Community activist Rencia Kooper is calling for greater institutional accountability following the death of four-month-old Senorita Bok, who died while her family was living in a makeshift shelter after their home was destroyed by fire. Speaking to Desert FM, Kooper raised concerns about the lack of timely assistance from local and regional authorities and questioned whether enough is being done to protect vulnerable children. She is appealing for assistance for Susana Bock and her children, including shelter materials, furniture, clothing and other basic household necessities.

IPC member of parliament Ferdinand Engombe has criticised the display of Swapo political material inside the National Assembly, arguing that MPs have a constitutional duty to represent all Namibians. In an interview, Engombe questioned the speaker’s handling of the matter and raised concerns about possible bias in parliament. He also explained the IPC’s opposition to the appointment of Gerson Sindano as ECN chairperson, citing concerns over his CV and the opposition’s decision not to participate in the vote.