SWAKOPMUND – The Minister of Mines and Industries, Modestus Amutse, says there is a need to adopt emerging technologies to support inclusive and resilient development across Africa’s utility sectors.
Amutse was speaking at the opening of the 22nd annual conference of the African Forum for Utility Regulators (AFUR) that is currently underway in Swakopmund.
AFUR was established to addresses regulatory matters in energy, telecommunications, transport and water & sanitation industries.
AFUR, established in 2002, is recognised by the African Union and comprises 52 regulators, including 39 full members and 13 observer members from 31 countries across the continent.
Amutse said the five-day conference aligns with Namibia’s commitment to sustainable industrialisation, energy security and inclusive economic growth as outlined in national development frameworks.
He added that Africa is experiencing rapid technological change, with artificial intelligence, the internet of things, smart grids, predictive analytics and automation already transforming service delivery.
“These technologies should not widen inequalities but must instead strengthen resilience and expand access to essential services such as energy, water, communications and transport,” he appealed to the regulators attending the conference.
He further explained that Namibia is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy, particularly in green hydrogen development, while prioritising accessible, affordable and clean energy.
Hence, digital solutions are becoming increasingly important in water management, with tools such as smart metering, desalination and digital monitoring improving resilience.
In communications, Amutse said Namibia’s digital transformation agenda focuses on expanding broadband access, improving data accessibility and strengthening digital literacy.
“Therefore, our investments in transport infrastructure continue, with upgrades to ports, roads and logistics corridors aimed at improving regional integration and economic competitiveness,” Amutse said.
These efforts align with AFUR’s objectives of promoting harmonised and forward-looking regulatory frameworks across Africa.
However, he says, despite the progress, millions of Africans still face energy poverty, water insecurity and limited digital access, noting that access to reliable electricity remains critical for education and healthcare.
He, therefore, urged the regulators to prioritise practical solutions, including integrating emerging technologies into utility regulation, strengthening cybersecurity and data protection, and promoting inclusive access to services.
Also speaking at the opening, AFUR chairperson Honoré Demenou Tapamo said the conference reflects a growing commitment among African regulators to collaborate and share knowledge across sectors.
According to Tapamo, 29 of the 39 full member institutions attended the conference, marking a record turnout.
He said the forum brings together regulators from energy, water and sanitation, communications, transport and maritime sectors, with the aim of strengthening transparent, effective and sustainable regulatory systems.
Tapamo says this year’s theme focuses on the role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, cybersecurity and geospatial tools in ensuring equitable access to services.
“However, many African regulators and operators still face challenges related to infrastructure and capacity. Therefore, we must find solutions that are tailored to the continent’s specific realities, as we find ourselves at a crossroads where technology is no longer an option but a necessity,” he said.
Tapamo also indicated that the conference will include technical sessions, peer learning and discussions on issues such as cyber resilience, mini-grid development and infrastructure safety discussions.