Nation unveils national digital blueprint and emergency communications scheme in Namibia
Namibia Launches National Digital Strategy and Emergency Telecommunications Plan
In a significant move towards enhancing disaster risk management and digital transformation, the Namibian government launched the National Digital Strategy (NDS) and the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP) in August 2025. The event, held in Windhoek and hosted by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT), was attended by key stakeholders from government, industry, and development partners [2][6].
The NETP is a strategic framework designed to ensure resilient, reliable, and continuous telecommunications during emergencies such as floods, droughts, and pandemics. By providing alternative communication systems, the plan aims to maintain connectivity even when traditional networks are disrupted by disasters [1][3][4].
The NETP focuses on improving communication and information-sharing about natural hazards and disaster risks to facilitate better preparedness and response. It also guides the implementation and coordination of telecom systems to support quick, efficient disaster responses, thereby enabling stronger national capabilities to protect citizens and infrastructure during crises [3][5].
Moreover, the NETP involves multiple sectors and stakeholders, including government entities, the private sector, and development partners, to collaborate in deploying and sustaining emergency telecommunications services [1]. This collaboration is crucial in driving the nation's digital future and ensuring that communication lines remain operational during disasters, thereby reducing the impact and improving disaster risk management outcomes [1][3][5].
Minister Malatsi announced the formation of a working group to spearhead the implementation of both the NDS and NETP during the launch event [7]. The NDS serves as a comprehensive blueprint for Namibia's digital transformation over the next three years, with key objectives including bridging the digital divide, promoting digital literacy, providing citizen-centric digital public services, and fostering digital innovation for economic opportunities [8].
The NETP will guide the ICT sector's support for disaster detection, mitigation, and response. It complements existing legislation like the Disaster Risk Management Act, outlining a framework for unhindered communication during emergencies [6]. The strategies received a round of applause from attendees, with speakers emphasizing their commitment to harnessing the transformative power of information and communication technologies for the betterment of every Namibian [9].
Mr. Philemon Johannes, Deputy Director of IT Infrastructure Development at the MICT, provided an overview of the NETP and its alignment with SADC action lines. He highlighted the plan's roadmap, which aims to empower citizens, especially the youth, with the skills needed to succeed in the fourth industrial revolution [10].
In conclusion, the launch of the NDS and NETP marks a significant step towards the implementation of both strategies. With the formation of a working group and the commitment of various stakeholders, Namibia is well on its way to improving disaster risk management and digital transformation, ensuring a brighter, more connected future for its citizens.
References:
- Namibia launches National Digital Strategy and National Emergency Telecommunications Plan
- Namibia launches National Digital Strategy and Emergency Telecommunications Plan
- Namibia's NETP: A strategic plan for disaster communication
- NETP: Ensuring communication during emergencies in Namibia
- Namibia's NETP: A game-changer for disaster management
- Namibia's NETP: A boost for disaster risk management
- Minister Malatsi announces working group for NDS and NETP implementation
- NDS: Bridging the digital divide in Namibia
- NETP receives applause at launch event
- NETP roadmap aims to empower Namibian youth
Technology plays a critical role in the implementation of both the National Digital Strategy (NDS) and the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP) in Namibia, as these strategies aim to foster digital innovation for economic opportunities and bolster the nation's ICT sector [8][10]. The NETP, for instance, will guide the ICT sector's support for disaster detection, mitigation, and response, thereby complementing general news and education-and-self-development initiatives that focus on equipping citizens with the skills needed to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution [10].
