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The Namibian government is urging increased direct investment in ICT innovation infrastructure, such as start-up support systems, incubators, and technology hubs, as a cornerstone of its national digital transformation strategy.
Speaking at the Huawei Partner Connect Gala Dinner in Windhoek on Tuesday, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, emphasised the importance of nurturing a strong local ICT ecosystem. She stated that fostering innovation and entrepreneurship is essential to developing a resilient and competitive ICT sector.
“We envision a Namibia where start-ups flourish, where innovation is actively supported, and where young people view ICT not just as a career path, but as a gateway to opportunity,” said Theofelus, calling on stakeholders to invest in innovation hubs, incubators, and centres of excellence.
The minister stressed that progress in ICT innovation hinges on significant investment in skills development. She highlighted the Namibia LEAP Digital Talent Program, launched in partnership with Huawei in 2024, as a blueprint for scaling digital skills training. The program is designed to cultivate a pipeline of locally trained ICT professionals, including developers and network specialists.
“I see a future where a digitally illiterate young Namibian becomes digitally aware, then skilled, and ultimately an expert,” said Theofelus. “This vision is achievable if we commit the necessary resources to ensuring equitable access to digital education.”
She welcomed private-sector participation in skills development, noting that industry-led training initiatives aligned with national objectives are crucial to building ICT capacity. “Through initiatives like LEAP and sustained collaboration with our partners, we aim to develop a highly skilled, competitive ICT workforce,” she added.
Minister Theofelus underscored that bridging the digital divide requires collective action, not just government intervention. She called on telecom operators, ICT firms, and educational institutions to work together in fostering long-term support for digital innovation.
“Bridging the digital divide is a shared responsibility—it demands coordinated effort from government, industry, academia, and development partners,” she said. In addition to skills and innovation, Theofelus outlined the government’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure. She reaffirmed a N$40 million allocation to the Universal Service and Access Fund to expand high-speed internet access in underserved communities. “Connectivity should be a right, not a privilege. It’s fundamental to education, healthcare, and economic inclusion,” she asserted.
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Namibia’s ICT strategy, endorsed by the broader government, prioritises the development of innovation ecosystems and human capital as key drivers of a competitive digital economy. Theofelus praised partnerships with companies like Huawei for their role in advancing local skills and infrastructure. “With shared vision and strong partnerships, we can ensure Namibia is a leader, not a bystander, in the fourth industrial revolution