As Namibia transitions into a new era under the Nandi-Ndaitwah administration, the country faces immense opportunities and challenges in embracing artificial intelligence (AI).
The strategic strengthening of AI governance is not just a necessity for security and regulatory oversight.
It is also crucial for boosting the oil and gas sector and empowering the youth.
Drawing lessons from other administrations globally, Namibia can harness AI to drive economic progress and create a sustainable future.
The need for AI governance
AI is transforming industries worldwide, offering efficiencies, automation and data-driven decision-making that enhance productivity.
However, without proper governance, AI can pose significant risks, including job displacement, ethical concerns and security vulnerabilities.
Strengthening AI governance means implementing policies that regulate AI use, ensuring ethical deployment and preparing Namibia for a technologically advanced future.
Other nations have taken proactive steps to regulate AI.
The European Union’s AI Act is a prime example of a structured regulatory framework that ensures transparency, accountability and risk mitigation in AI applications.
Similarly, the United States has introduced guidelines on AI governance to balance innovation with ethical considerations.
Namibia can learn from these models to develop its AI policies tailored to national needs and economic ambitions.
Boosting oil and gas sector
Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry stands to benefit immensely from AI-driven innovations.
AI can enhance exploration and drilling efficiency, optimise resource management and improve safety in operations.
Countries like Saudi Arabia and Norway have successfully integrated AI into their oil and gas sectors, reducing costs and increasing productivity.
By strengthening AI governance, the Nandi-Ndaitwah administration can attract international investments by ensuring a stable and predictable regulatory environment.
AI-driven predictive analytics can also help mitigate environmental risks, ensuring sustainable extraction practices that align with Namibia’s commitment to green energy transitions.
Youth empowerment
A well-regulated AI ecosystem presents enormous opportunities for Namibian youth.
AI-driven industries require a skilled workforce, offering high-paying jobs in data science, software development and AI ethics.
The government can invest in AI education programs, fostering digital literacy and innovation among young people.
Countries like Rwanda have leveraged AI to empower their youth by integrating AI education into their curricula and creating AI incubation hubs.
Namibia can follow suit by establishing AI training centres and innovation hubs, ensuring that young Namibians are at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Additionally, AI can support the startup ecosystem, enabling young entrepreneurs to develop AI-powered solutions in various industries.
The way forward
To ensure AI contributes to the national developmental agenda, the Nandi-Ndaitwah administration should:
Establish an AI regulatory framework to promote ethical and transparent AI use.
Invest in AI research and development, particularly in sectors like oil, gas and agriculture.
Partner with global AI institutions to build local expertise and attract investment.
Integrate AI education into school curricula to prepare the next generation for digital jobs.
By prioritising AI governance, Namibia can secure a prosperous, technologically advanced and youth-driven future.
The Nandi-Ndaitwah administration has a unique opportunity to shape the nation’s digital economy while ensuring responsible and inclusive AI deployment.
*Henry Gwai is a youth empowerment and sustainable development advocate. He can be reached at henrygwai982@gmail.com