VON BACH – Bridging the digital divide, prudent use of resources, aligning visions, creating opportunities and executing government’s development should be the yardstick of the country’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector. 

These were the key takeaways from information minister Emma Theofelus’ remarks during yesterday’s senior leadership retreat at the Von Bach Dam Resort on the outskirts of Okahandja. 

The two-day retreat brought together heads of State-owned media houses and government ICT agencies under one roof. 

It served as a platform for the line ministry and its affiliates to touch base, introspect, exchange notes and carve a common future. 

The gathering was attended by CEOs, board members and senior officials from the ministry, New Era, NBC, Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), Namibia Film Commission (NFC) and the Namibia Press Agency (Nampa). 

Unpacking the importance and essence of the retreat, Theofelus said there is a growing need for government communications and ICT entities to come together from time to time to introspect and chart a renewed way forward. 

“Sharing resources and avoiding duplication of efforts is crucial. Doing so can maximise our impact while conserving our scarce resources. This collaborative spirit will be particularly important as we approach the upcoming ICT summit,” said the minister. 

She also touched on the planned merger between New Era and Nampa.

“As a ministry, we are embarking on many programmes, projects and responsibilities accorded to us by the Cabinet. Some of which include the merger of the Nampa and New Era, and the dismantling of the Namibia Post and Telecommunications Holdings. Poverty, unemployment and the high cost of living are contemporary pressing challenges for our country. 

“As government institutions, we must devise strategies to address these issues effectively, and it is possible through the digital economy. It is our responsibility to harness the power of ICT to create jobs and foster economic growth.”

Collective efforts

Information ministry executive director Audrin Mathe used the platform to assure that government, through the ministry, will continue to advocate for the sharing and prudent use of resources, especially when it comes to government agencies sharing office space, technology, concepts and related materials.  

“It’s the little things we do as a collective that goes a long in bringing much-needed change. The sharing of office space, technology and other resources has proven that we can effectively do more with the little resources we have as a sector. When you look at the sharing agreements between New Era, NBC, Nampa and the ministry, you can see that it is possible to achieve more through collaborative efforts and sharing resources. As a ministry, we will continue to work with sister ministries, and share resources where and when needed,” said Mathe.   

-ohembapu@nepc.com.na