Monika Amuyela
Board chairperson of the New Era Publication Corporation (NEPC), John Sifani, says the corporation remains committed to supporting the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology’s strategic plan, and that of the Namibian government at large, particularly in enhancing public access to government information and promoting government initiatives.
Sifani made these remarks during a quarterly engagement between NEPC board and information and communication technology minister Emma Theofelus.
He noted that the corporation continues to invest in human capital through training programmes targeting staff, interns and government employees, including members of the Namibian Defence Force.
Sifani added that NEPC is also empowering the youth through internships, training initiatives and platforms that allow young Namibians to apply their skills to real-world challenges.
One such initiative is the NEPC/NCRST two-day hackathon, which provides a platform for innovative problem-solving.
In response to recommendations from the Fourth Industrial Revolution Commission,
the corporation has also introduced cybersecurity training for employees. Additionally, on-site psychological support services have been implemented to enhance staff wellbeing.
Sifani further highlighted that NEPC has consistently produced annual reports over
the past six years and achieved unqualified audit opinions for five consecutive years.
He said these efforts align with the Swapo manifesto, the 8th administration’s pillars, as well as the National Development Plan (NDP6). However, he acknowledged that the corporation faces financial challenges, noting that these could be mitigated through increased support from government and state-owned enterprises.
On her part, Theofelus acknowledged the financial constraints, revealing that the government subsidy to NEPC had been reduced by three percent. She, however, encouraged the corporation to intensify efforts to increase revenue through sales and strategic interventions. The minister expressed confidence that the entity has the capacity to offset the reduction through improved performance, while underscoring the need for stronger revenue generation
and operational resilience.
NEPC chief executive officer Christof Maletsky emphasised the importance of public media in shaping national narratives, particularly by highlighting development successes. He said state media institutions, including the Namibia Press Agency, have
a unique mandate that cannot be outsourced to external platforms.
Maletsky also pointed to efforts to improve access to information through publishing in local languages and ensuring nationwide coverage.
The meeting further highlighted the need for improved communication within government, particularly between media houses and public relations officers.
Also in attendance were deputy chairperson Edwin Tjiramba and other senior officials, as part of ongoing efforts to align the corporation’s strategic direction with its public mandate.