The Namibia Professional Communicators’ Forum was officially launched in Windhoek on Monday, 15 July. The forum, a new platform open to all, is designed to bring together industry leaders, seasoned professionals and enthusiastic newcomers, fostering collaboration, innovation and professional development in the field of communication.
The forum aims to be a dynamic space where communicatios professionals can share knowledge, discuss emerging trends, and explore best-practices.
In her keynote address, Information and Communication Technology minister Emma Theofelus, emphasised the significant role communication professionals play in shaping a Namibian identity and sharing distinctive Namibian stories with the world. This is especially vital in a competitive environment where there is fierce competition for investments, tourism and export markets. She urged communication professionals to recognise the strategic importance of their work beyond the organisations they serve, and to consider it as contributing to the national effort.
Also speaking at the event, the chairperson and CEO of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Nangula Uaandja expressed the importance of communicators joining forces to convey a synchronised Namibian message that could help propel the interest of foreign investment to the country.
On his part, Kazembire Zemburuka, one of the convenors of the NPCF, said the forum was created because they realised that even though strategic communication can add value to institutions, it is not often recognised as a key driver of value-maximisation for institutions. “The forum aims to advocate for the importance of the industry, and provide members with a platform to collaborate and position themselves for new opportunities, particularly in the emerging energy sectors of green hydrogen, and oil and gas,” he said.
Communications professional Stella Ipinge, who also formed part of the NPCF working group, presented the value proposition of the forum, which outlines the strategy and the intended function of the platform. She said as the premier network of strategic communication, PR and marketing professionals in Namibia, the forum offers a unique platform to engage in industry-relevant educational awareness, address mutual challenges, facilitate networking opportunities, and foster continuous learning. “The value proposition of the forum includes access to an array of engagements inclusive of webinars, workshops, panel discussions, collaborative ideations, networking and knowledge-sharing sessions on pertinent topics that support and establish a cohesive industry and national standard on matters related to communication, PR and marketing,” she said.
In her closing remarks, communications professional Selma Kaulinge said the high number of attendees at the inaugural launch event signifies the importance of the communications profession. “We hope this forum becomes a thriving community where ideas are exchanged, knowledge is shared, and professional networks are strengthened,” she said.
The NPCF is open to public and private sector professionals and students at universities studying related courses. It will offer a range of ongoing activities, including workshops, in-person and online webinars, and regional meet-ups. These activities are designed to provide continuous learning and engagement opportunities, ensuring members are always at the forefront of the industry.