Rudolf Gaiseb
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) director for print media affairs Frans Nghitila affirmed that Namibia’s key strategies provide a bedrock for a digital economy that serves citizens, fosters innovation and connectivity, and strengthens trust in digital governance.
He was speaking on behalf of his line minister, Emma Theofelus, yesterday at the 12th edition of the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAFRICA) in Windhoek.
He said technology is not a luxury but a necessity for inclusive development and sustainable growth.
“Our efforts, such as the Sixth National Development Plan and our National Digital Strategy, aim to ensure that ICTs are embedded across every sector, including education, healthcare, agriculture and public service delivery,” he said.
Through comprehensive legislation to govern artificial intelligence and digital safety, the nation has formulated a draft Artificial Intelligence Bill, as well as draft Data Protection and Cybercrime Bills.
“These developments are all part of our broader digital transformation strategy, aimed at modernising governance and managing emerging tech risks,” Nghitila added.
At the same time, the ICT sector faces challenges, including the digital divide, affordability of services and the risks posed by disinformation, misinformation and online harms.
Nghitila noted that the ministry’s efforts respond to these realities and will continue to strengthen policies and build resilient governance frameworks.
These sentiments were echoed by Lillian Nalwoga, programmes manager at the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA), who said that while the digital landscape is evolving rapidly, it presents many opportunities for Africa.
“These opportunities involve natural resources. We must leverage this wealth to transform governance structures and enhance service delivery, health, education and civic participation,” she urged.
Nalwoga also highlighted that challenges such as internet shutdowns undermine progress, and that mis- and disinformation have become rampant, alongside surveillance issues without proper privacy legislation.
Meanwhile, Namibia Internet Governance Forum chairperson Albertine Shipena emphasised that securing the internet ecosystem safeguards the fundamental human rights of dignity, privacy and meaningful online participation.
“Digital rights and freedom can only thrive in an environment where trust, safety and accountability are prioritised,” she said.
She encouraged stakeholder collaboration to drive meaningful change in the sector.
FIFAFRICA 2025 brought together policymakers, activists, journalists, technologists and civil society to debate and shape the future of digital rights across the continent.
CIPESA, in partnership with MICT and NamIGF, hosted the forum, positioning Namibia as a continental hub for advancing internet freedom, digital inclusion, governance, access and affordability.
The forum started on 24 September and concludes today.
–rrgaiseb@gmail.com