Desert FM 95.3

Dr Shirley Magazi

Justina Erastus says Namibia’s oil and gas future must include meaningful opportunities for young people and local entrepreneurs. The upcoming Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Walvis Bay aims to connect delegates with industry stakeholders, training opportunities, and pathways into the sector.

UNAM's Simon Namesho says around 7,000 first-year students have yet to complete their NASFAF applications ahead of the June 11 deadline. The university is urging students to act immediately, warning that failure to apply could leave them responsible for their tuition fees and jeopardise their studies.

Veteran boxing promoter Nestor Tobias says escalating costs and visa requirements are placing increased pressure on efforts to host international boxing events in Namibia. He is calling on government and corporate Namibia to invest more in sport, arguing that it serves as a powerful tool for marketing the country and attracting investment.

ANC veteran Mathews Phosa says President Cyril Ramaphosa should not resign over the Phala Phala controversy and is likely to challenge the impeachment process in court. He also urged both the ANC and SWAPO to improve governance and rebuild public trust amid growing voter dissatisfaction.

Governance analyst Joseph Ilonga says repeated suspensions, dismissals and court-ordered reinstatements at state-owned enterprises are costing taxpayers money and damaging institutional credibility. He says boards must follow proper disciplinary procedures, avoid political interference and undergo governance training to strengthen accountability and transparency across public enterprises.

Industries, Mines and Energy Minister Modestus Amutse says Namibia's emergency fuel supply arrangement with Vitol could save the country more than N$300 million per month by removing costly fuel supply premiums. He says the deal is intended to protect consumers from fuel price increases and could save the nation about N$1 billion over the next three months if successfully implemented.

The Nama Traditional Leaders Association (NTLA) says the government's "genocide to renaissance" narrative risks reducing historical injustices to symbolism while failing to address land dispossession, economic exclusion and structural inequality. NTLA secretary general Lazarus Kairabeb argues that meaningful reconciliation must be accompanied by material justice, greater community ownership and stronger implementation of constitutional rights.

Entries are pouring in for the 2026 Shoprite and Checkers Championship Boerewors Competition as returning champions and first-time contestants prepare to showcase their secret recipes. Culinary personality Fortune says a winning boerewors comes down to balanced seasoning, the right meat-to-fat ratio and avoiding the common mistake of overcooking the sausage.

Trade unionist Mahongora Kavihuha has welcomed the International Court of Justice ruling affirming that the right to strike is protected under ILO Convention 87, describing it as a historic victory for workers worldwide. He says the decision could influence future amendments to Namibia’s Labour Act by broadening the legal scope of strikes beyond wage related disputes and strengthening workers’ rights.