Desert FM 95.3

A Facebook post by Ophelia Katamba has sparked public outrage after she alleged negligence at Lüderitz District Hospital, following the deaths of a mother and baby within two weeks. Katamba says the incidents expose deeper problems in the town’s healthcare system. Her post has since gone viral, with many calling for action from the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

Desert FM speaks to Katamba for more on the situation at Lüderitz.

Namibia could spend between N$10 and N$15 billion if it wants a 10% to 15% stake in De Beers. 

This step would make the country a co-owner of diamond assets across Africa and beyond.

To explore this, Desert FM speaks to diamond industry expert Alisa Amupolo for her insights on the implications of this potential acquisition.

The police have issued a warning to motorists following a concerning rise in cases where drivers attempt to bribe traffic officers or traffic officers asking for bribes.

To discuss the extent of this issue and how it is being addressed, Desert FM speaks to head of the Traffic Law Enforcement Directorate, Petrus Swartz.

Conversations around Namibia joining Angola and Botswana in acquiring equity in De Beers have gained traction. 

The potential acquisition could cost Namibia up to N$15 billion, depending on the final shareholding.

To unpack the economic implications, Desert FM speaks to economist and head of research at Cirrus Capital, Robert McGregor.

Motivational speaker and businessman Forever Sun Haiduwah urges youths to overcome fear and embrace entrepreneurship, warning that government jobs aren’t always secure and practical experience is key to building sustainable businesses.

Namibian Olympic coach Henk Botha warns that recent policy changes for transgender and DSD athletes could have major impacts on careers and preparation, calling for support, guidance, and a more humane approach to ensure inclusion and fairness in sport.

Deyoncee Naris, national coordinator of the Trans Intersex Androgynous Movement of Namibia, warns proposed IOC restrictions could harm mental health and inclusion, calling for policies that protect all athletes’ dignity and rights.

Fly Namibia and Namibia Airports Company on Tuesday gave a group of elderly residents from Katutura a 30-minute scenic flight from Eros Airport to Hosea Kutako International Airport and back.For many of the senior citizens, it was their first time ever stepping onto an airplane.

The initiative, described as a gesture of gratitude and inclusion, has been widely praised on social media for celebrating Namibia’s elderly community in a unique way.

Namibia Airports Company spokesperson Dan Kamati tells Desert FM about how this came about.

The British multinational Anglo American has put its 85% stake in De Beers up for sale, valued at around N$84 billion.

Botswana and Angola recently met to discuss both countries' interest in that stake. Botswana already owns 15% of De Beers and have expressed interest for more.

Reports suggest that for Namibia, a 10-15% share could cost between N$9.8 and N$14.8 billion. This massive investment would make the country a co-owner of diamond reserves in Botswana, Angola, Canada and beyond.

But can Namibia afford this? To talk about this, Desert FM is joined by Swanu of Namibia president Evalistus Kaaronda.

Miss Namibia Johanna Swartbooi’s appearance at the Miss Universe competition sparked negative comments on social media about representation and appearance. 

Former Miss Namibia Chelsi Shikongo publicly defended Swartbooi, saying Namibians of any tribe are Namibian. 

Miss Namibia Organisation chief executive Umbi Karuaihe-Upi speaks to Desert FM on this.