ICT growth essential for Hardap’s national contribution: Theofelus

MARIENTAL, 21 MAR (NAMPA) – Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, has said the Hardap Region holds significant potential to contribute to national development, particularly through the integration of ICT in key sectors such as agriculture.
Addressing the ICT high-level stakeholders’ engagement in Mariental on Friday, Theofelus said Hardap’s strong agricultural base, including livestock farming and irrigation schemes, can be enhanced through innovation, digitalisation and improved access to ICT infrastructure, in line with the country’s development goals.
The minister further highlighted the need to position the region as a potential film destination, adding that the ministry is committed to growing Namibia’s film industry in collaboration with regional stakeholders.
“The purpose of the engagement was to assess ICT progress in the region, identify existing gaps and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate development,” Theofelus said.
She however stressed that connectivity challenges remain a major concern in Hardap, affecting sectors such as education, healthcare and general service delivery.
Government, through the Universal Service Fund, has allocated resources to the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) to expand ICT infrastructure to underserved and remote areas.
“It is our wish that Hardap Region will be prioritised for new towers to expand network coverage in the next phase,” she said.
The minister also revealed that stakeholder consultations on the Cybercrime Bill have been concluded, with the proposed legislation set to strengthen the country’s legal framework against cybercrime.
She further added that Namibia is working towards improving broadband speeds through the revised National Broadband Policy. The policy sets new targets aimed at boosting digital innovation and economic growth.
Theofelus explained that the finalisation and gazetting of regulations under the Electronic Transactions Act will facilitate secure electronic signatures, reduce operational costs and enhance efficiency in both public and private sectors.
She emphasised the role of community media in promoting access to information, noting that the ministry is advancing the Community Media Policy to strengthen community radio stations and ensure inclusive participation, particularly in rural areas.
Service providers, including MTC, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), CRAN and Telecom Namibia presented their ongoing projects, as well as challenges and achievements in delivering services to communities.
(NAMPA)
GJ/EK/AS