( 3 Minutes Read)
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has announced that the nation’s current data infrastructure is adequately prepared to support the implementation of the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) framework — a critical system designed to enhance digital trust, strengthen cybersecurity, and secure online transactions.
During a stakeholder engagement session on the PKI initiative, Elton Witbooi, CRAN’s Executive for ICT, highlighted that although Namibia currently operates only one Tier 3 data centre, the existing infrastructure is capable of supporting the secure and efficient deployment of the framework.
“In the context of PKI, the data involved primarily consists of certificate management data — transactional information used for managing encryption keys. The volume of this data is minimal and can easily be hosted by various certification service providers,” Witbooi explained.
The PKI framework serves as the backbone of modern digital security. It employs encryption and digital certificates to verify the authenticity of users, safeguard sensitive data, and facilitate secure electronic signatures. This ensures that digital exchanges — whether between individuals, institutions, or government bodies — remain authentic and protected from tampering or unauthorised access.
Witbooi noted that CRAN had conducted benchmarking assessments confirming that both the authority and the Ministry of Home Affairs possess the necessary facilities to meet international standards for key generation, storage, and data protection. He further clarified that while PKI-related data can be securely managed within the national infrastructure, end-user data remains the responsibility of the institutions that handle it — including banks, telecommunications providers, and other entities managing personal or financial information.
To further bolster Namibia’s digital capacity, Witbooi revealed that the Office of the Prime Minister is spearheading plans to establish a dedicated government data centre. This new facility will not only enhance the country’s data management capabilities but also serve as a cornerstone for Namibia’s broader digital transformation and e-governance initiatives.
Under the Electronic Transactions Act No. 4 of 2019, CRAN has been officially designated as the Root Certification Authority (RCA). In this role, the regulator is tasked with implementing the PKI framework, overseeing compliance with stringent security protocols, and ensuring the integrity of digital communications across all sectors.
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CRAN emphasized that the successful rollout of the PKI framework will open the door to more secure communications, digital signatures, and reliable online identity verification for both public and private sector institutions. Ultimately, the initiative aims to establish a trusted and resilient digital economy for Namibia, capable of supporting secure e-services and boosting confidence in the country’s digital landscape.
