THE Namibia Press Agency (Nampa) is set to initiate training programmes for media professionals that focus on the coverage of emerging sectors within the oil and gas industry.

Nampa chief executive officer Linus Chata made the announcement on Thursday during a high-level tertiary education funding budget review dinner held at the Nampa headquarters in Windhoek.

The event was officiated by Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila. 

Also in attendance was Minister of Higher Education, Training and Innovation Itah Kandjii-Murangi, and Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology Modestus Amutse, and prominent industry figures.

“This event is the first of many similar engagements Nampa will be hosting going forward. We plan to give exposure to a wide range of sectors of our economy and society,” Chata said.

He noted that Nampa has “come of age” and is determined to leverage all available avenues to deliver on its mandate.

“We are scaling up and expanding beyond traditional news and information collection and dissemination, to content creation. With the aid of modern technology, we are able to connect corporate entities with their target markets in Namibia and beyond,” Chata added.

Nampa board member Bertha Amakali, when officially opening the event, commended participants for their dedication to national development, stressing the importance of research, innovation, and training in emerging sectors such as oil and gas and green hydrogen.

“Our collective efforts will guide us toward sustainable growth and impactful outcomes. Besides the presentations, let us engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, and chart a course that aligns with our Harambee mantra, no one must be left out,” said Amakali.

Amakali further revealed that Nampa has finalised its strategic plan, outlining its readiness to serve as a reliable information and content partner in the era of multimedia and emerging technologies.

She encouraged collaboration, stating, “Our teams will be calling on you soon to discuss what we can do for you with our diverse capabilities.”

Nampa currently distributes content to more than 500 digital media platforms and 88 newspapers in more than 70 countries and regions worldwide. 

The news agency delivers news to over 18 radio stations throughout Namibia. 

-Nampa