Opinion – Corporate security in Namibia 

Opinion – Corporate security in Namibia 

The reported data breach incident at Telecom Namibia in December 2024, followed by the recent armed robbery and unfortunate loss of life at Namdia’s headquarters in Windhoek, raises concerns over the significance and perceptions of security functions at major firms in the country. The key question here is, do Namibian companies consider security as a critical function for their operations and continuity? 

Generally, many locals view security as a function of less importance, and one that should rank low in the list of several competing business priorities. Although corporate security should be highly regarded as a major business enabler, executives and managers often underestimate its contribution to the company. A PricewaterhouseCoopers (2022) corporate security benchmarking survey showed that there are fewer executives and managers than security chiefs who regard corporate security as a business enabler. 

Another perception commonly associated with security is that it requires little or no academic proficiency. 

For these and many other reasons, many individuals and businesses have become hesitant to direct resources towards proper security measures, cultivating a culture of poor security practices and systems in the country.

Although a few key institutions in the country boast good security systems, supported by vigorous security management measures, the need for a mindset shift towards proper security structures, policies and procedures still exists within the local economy. As the world evolves in various aspects, there are increased demands for dynamic initiatives and investments towards security. 

Several research studies suggest that security should be a top priority of any business or company. Mukherjee (2019), a Senior Database Administrator at the University of the Cumberlands Chicago, United States, asserts that great danger surfaces when companies choose to undermine security policies and procedures. Security is a critical function and a key enabler for business success, continuity and sustainability. Organisations need to direct resources towards their protection through proper security structures, systems, policies and procedures. It is the duty of executives, managers, employees, clients and all stakeholders to guard against security threats by addressing vulnerabilities, and complying with security procedures and protocols.