The Minister of Information and Communication Technology (MICT), Emma Theofelus, has announced plans to introduce YouTube monetization and digital payment solutions such as PayPal and Apple Pay in the country. 

The initiative aims to break the barriers that have been preventing Namibians from fully participating in the global digital economy. 

According to The Brief online publication, Theofelus emphasized that this initiative will open up new avenues for Namibians to earn online income, particularly through popular platforms like Google AdSense and PayPal. 

Currently, many local content creators experience challenges in monetising their work due to a lack of accessible payment solutions, limiting their ability to tap into the full potential of online opportunities. 

“We are actively working to ensure that Namibians can seamlessly participate in the global digital economy. Platforms such as YouTube and PayPal are essential tools for digital entrepreneurs, and we want to make sure they are accessible to everyone, no matter their location,” she said. 

The announcement has been met with excitement by content creators across the country, who view it as a game-changer for their ability to generate revenue from their online work. With the inclusion of platforms like PayPal and Apple Pay, Namibian creators will be able to receive payments for digital content, services, and products, opening up a world of possibilities for local businesses and creators. 

For years, Namibian creators have faced difficulties in monetising their content due to lack of local payment integration, which has prevented them from earning income from global platforms. 

Local digital entrepreneurs have expressed enthusiasm after the announcement, noting that these changes will not only help them earn income but also raise Namibia’s profile as a hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship. 

A YouTube couple Kaze Muharukua and Ujandja Tjimbundu said as Namibian content creators, they had hoped to see this day come. 

“We would always joke that if only Namibia would get monetised and laugh, knowing that that day was probably never going to come. Theofelus is not only making our dream come true but enabling and awakening Namibians, especially in this economy. If only we could give her a hug for this great news,” the couple said. 

The couple started their YouTube channel in April 2021 during Covid-19 lockdown, creating content around pranks, challenges and vlogs. The aim was to entertain and put smiles on people’s faces, as they spent time indoors, going through a difficult time as a nation. 

They got positive responses from people commenting, liking and subscribing. They posted content for two years without getting anything from YouTube, and this included a time when Ujandja Tjimbundu, graduated from the University of Namibia and was job hunting with no success. 

“We eventually got paid and were happy we could put little bread on our table through YouTube. We are monetised but are not getting much as we are registered under South Africa, and YouTube does not run ads on Namibian YouTube channels. If successfully implemented, enabling digital payment solutions in Namibia would be a game changer for content creators. It would remove financial barriers,” they said. 

Another content creator, Kavetja Ngaizuvare told VIBEZ this is a great step forward for Namibian content creators as it finally gives them the opportunity to earn from their own work and compete on a global level. 

“This means a lot to me, and it means I can finally start working towards monetizing my content and turning my passion into a sustainable career. This makes me feel my content is going to mean something more than just posting,” she said. 

She expressed hope the implementation process goes smoothly and that more digital opportunities op en up for Namibians. 

“ Stay consistent, create quality content, and engage your audience. Patience and persistence are key,” she advised. 

-pmukokobi@ nepc.com.na