Embracing the Digital Future: The Crucial Role of Digital Literacy in Namibia

04 Jul
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25 JUNE 2024 – WINDHOEK

In today’s interconnected world, digital literacy is a fundamental skill required in all areas of life. As an Authority, we recognise the transformative power of digital literacy. It extends beyond basic technology use to include critical navigation, evaluation, and creation of information on digital platforms.

Digital literacy encompasses various competencies: using digital devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets; navigating the internet; utilising software applications; and engaging with social media platforms. It also involves critical thinking to assess online information, understand privacy and security concerns, and use digital tools ethically and responsibly.

Digital literacy empowers individuals by providing tools to access information, communicate effectively, and participate in the digital economy. In Namibia, enhancing digital literacy can bridge gaps in education, employment, and social inclusion. For students, it opens doors to educational resources and online learning. For job seekers, it means access to job portals, online applications, and remote work opportunities.

The global economy is increasingly digital, and Namibia must keep pace to remain competitive. Digital literacy is crucial for entrepreneurs and small business owners to market products online, manage e-commerce platforms, and leverage digital tools for growth. For the broader workforce, digital skills are now a prerequisite for many jobs, from basic computer literacy to advanced technical skills in fields like cybersecurity, data analysis, and digital marketing.

Digital literacy also plays a vital role in governance and civic participation. With the rise of e-government services, digitally literate citizens can access public services more efficiently, participate in online consultations, and engage with government initiatives. This improves transparency, accountability, and fosters a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

In healthcare, digital literacy can significantly enhance patient care and health outcomes. Telemedicine, electronic health records, and online health resources require both healthcare providers and patients to be digitally literate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital tools enabled remote consultations, online health monitoring, and the dissemination of crucial health information, underscoring the need for digital literacy in managing public health crises.

Despite its importance, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of digital literacy in Namibia:

Limited Access to Technology

Many Namibians, particularly in rural areas, lack access to digital devices and reliable internet connections. This digital divide exacerbates existing inequalities and limits opportunities for those without access to technology.

Lack of Training and Education

Many schools and communities lack the resources or qualified instructors to teach digital literacy effectively, leaving individuals without the skills needed to navigate the digital world.

Cultural and Language Barriers

Cultural and language differences can also pose barriers. Digital content is often available in dominant languages, excluding those who speak indigenous languages. Additionally, cultural attitudes towards technology can influence how individuals perceive and use digital tools.

To address these challenges and enhance digital literacy in Namibia, a multi-faceted approach is needed:

Infrastructure Development

Expanding digital infrastructure is fundamental. Efforts must be made to provide affordable and reliable internet access across the country, particularly in underserved rural areas. Public-private partnerships can play a significant role in this endeavour.

Education Integration

Integrating digital literacy into the national education curriculum from primary school through to higher education is crucial. Schools should be equipped with the necessary technology, and teachers should receive training to teach digital skills effectively. Community centres and libraries can also serve as hubs for digital literacy training.

Support for Vulnerable Groups

Special attention should be given to vulnerable and marginalised groups to ensure inclusivity in digital literacy initiatives. This includes designing tailored programmes for older adults, providing assistive technologies and support for people with disabilities, and addressing gender disparities in digital access and literacy.

Collaboration with Stakeholders

Enhancing digital literacy requires collaboration between various stakeholders, including government, private sector, civil society, and international partners. By working together, these stakeholders can pool resources, share expertise, and develop comprehensive programmes that address various aspects of digital literacy.

Digital literacy is a cornerstone of modern society, and its importance cannot be overstated. For Namibia to thrive in the digital age, we must prioritise developing digital literacy skills across all sectors of society. By addressing the challenges and implementing strategic initiatives, we can empower our citizens, enhance economic opportunities, improve governance, and advance healthcare. As we move forward, let us commit to creating an inclusive digital future where every Namibian has the skills and knowledge to participate fully in the digital world.

As an Authority, we are dedicated to promoting digital literacy and bridging the digital divide. Together, we can embrace the digital future and ensure that every Namibian is equipped to navigate and thrive in the digital age.

ENDS

Issued By:

Hilya Mhani

Manager: Consumer Relations and Advocacy

Tel: +264 61 222 666

Email: Stakeholdercomms@cran.na

Copyright © 2024 CRAN | All Rights Reserved.

Tulimevava Kaunapawa Mufeti

Chairperson

Kauna Mufeti is a Computer Science and Information Systems expert with extensive experience in the use of ICT infrastructures to support e-Learning in developing contexts. She also has a passion for software development, specifically in creating database-driven web applications for multi-user systems and developing content for online courses.

Her leadership journey includes heading the School of Computing from 2015 to 2020, where she oversaw educational, research, and administrative functions. She supervised multiple collaborative funded research projects with various national and international institutions.

Kauna also has a robust background in managing the development of software systems. She spearheaded the development of several Content Management Systems for the University of Namibia (UNAM) clients. She also managed the development of the University Management Information Systems project at UNAM, coordinating efforts between multiple stakeholders and an offshore development team.

She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems, Master of Science Degree in Computer Science, and Bachelor of Science with Honours Degree in Computer Science, all from Rhodes University. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science and Physics, from the UNAM.

She is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Computing, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at UNAM.

Aletha Nangula Haufiku

Board Member

Aletha Haufiku is a Human Resources professional with over 15 years of business acumen and extensive HR leadership. She is a versatile, personable, results-oriented, and empowering Leader that assists the firm's leadership team in translating the company strategy into HR initiatives that improve performance, profitability, and growth, while also handling legal and compliance concerns, talent retention, and employee engagement.

She has expertise and experience in general HR and business functions such as Business Management, Strategic Human Resources, HR Staffing & Administration, Organisational Development Business Re-engineering, Employee and Labour Relations, Compensation and Benefits, and Employee Wellness, Health and Safety.

Aletha holds a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship (MSC) from the ESSCA School of Management in Paris, France; Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the City University of Applied Science, Hochschule Bremen, Germany; B Tech Human Resources Management and National Diploma Human Resources Management from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (former Polytechnic).

She is currently employed by Bokomo Namibia as Human Resources Executive.

Elvis Elia Nashilongo

Vice-Chairperson

Elvis Nashilongo is an operations’ practitioner with over 2 decades of experience in the management of Pension funds schemes. He holds a Master’s degree in International Business (MIB/MBA) specializing in Business Management strategies. He also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Executive Development Program (EDP), a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Industrial Psychology and a National Diploma in Public Management.

Mr. Nashilongo has served in leadership and management roles such as former chairman at Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC), a former chairman of Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and Principal Officer of GEPF, Board Member at Retirement Funds Institute of Namibia (RFIN), Director and Chairman at Omusati Medical Hospital, and Board Member at Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA). He is currently employed as General Manager: Operations, at the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF)

Gerhard Coeln

Board Member

Gerhard Coeln is a seasoned Electrical Engineer and founder of GeCoCo Consulting, responsible for electricity distribution & supply industry development and restructuring at local, regional, and national level. He holds an MBA from the Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh Business School in Scotland and a B.Sc. Electrical & Electronic Engineering from the University of Cape Town. He has recently participated in and received the TPRM certificate course at Wits University.

Gerhard initially worked at telecom companies in South Africa whereafter he returned to Namibia where he worked for a consulting firm Henning Seelenbinder and Partners (HSP) in Windhoek, which concentrated more on power systems and electricity networks throughout Namibia. He then worked for the Municipality of Walvis Bay electricity department until the establishment of Erongo RED.

Gerhard was involved in the restructuring process of the electricity supply industry that culminated in the creation of the Electricity Control Board. Moreover, he was the founding Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Erongo RED from March 2005 until January 2013. He provided strategic leadership, financial planning and management, board reporting, risk management, environmental scanning, stakeholder management, corporate governance, corporate image, and project management skills during his tenure at Erongo RED.

He as worked at multiple private electricity firms such as Rural Maintenance (Pty) Ltd involved in turn-around strategies for municipalities’ electricity department in South Africa.

Veiko Shatilwe Alexander

Board Member

Veiko Alexander is an admitted legal practitioner of the High Court of Namibia and is the founder and director of the law firm, Veiko Alexander & Company Incorporated. He holds a LLB from the University of South Africa and B-Juris from University of Namibia.

Veiko’s service alignment is predominantly commercial and corporate advice, although a limited part of his practice also includes, labour, civil and criminal litigation. He specialises on advising on mining and minerals related law; licensing and regulatory; the drawing, negotiation and reviewing of contracts; conducting of due diligences and project financing.

Apart from being a practicing lawyer, Veiko is also a director, and serves on the board of directors of CRAN, Lemon Square Investments (Pty) Ltd, Nam-mic Holdings (Pty) Ltd and Ino Harith Capital, a leading fund manager appointed to manage the Namibia Infrastructure Fund 1 and Namibia Infrastructure Fund 2.

Florette Nicolette Nakusera

Board Member

Florette Nakusera is a seasoned professional Economist with over 24 years of experience, ranging between leadership, executive, management and operational experience in the financial sector, the aviation sector, statistics, environmental economics, and the education sector. She possesses excellent communication and negotiation skills and have good strategic appreciation and vision. she has a collaborative approach, with good interpersonal skills to engage, motivate and encourage others. She is an analytical decision-maker that has considerable experience in building companies/institutions and managing difficult situations.

Florette holds an M.Comm (Economics) and B.Comm (Hons) Economics from the University of Stellenbosch. Additionally, she also holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Namibia, certificates in International Executive Development Programme (IEDP) form the WITS Business School and London Business School, and Executive Development Programme (EDP) from the University of Stellenbosch Business School.

She is currently employed by the Bank of Namibia (BoN) as a Director of the Financial Stability and Macroprudential Oversight Department, and Head of the Namibia Deposit Guarantee Authority (NDGA). She is also a Member of the Financial Sector Stability Committee (FSSC) and Macroprudential Oversight Committee (MOC) at BoN.

Jeanine Du Toit

Board Member

Jeanine du Toit is a dedicated and driven professional with a profound enthusiasm for finance, technical standards, and value-added reporting. With a career spanning over a decade in managerial roles as an audit partner/director, Jeanine brings a wealth of experience in bookkeeping, accounting, taxation, payroll, and audit engagements across diverse industries.

Jeanine holds an Honours Bachelor of Accounting Science and Bachelor of Accounting Science from the University of South Africa (UNISA). She is recognized as a Competency Assessor, Registered Auditor, Chartered Accountant, and Professional Accountant. Her commitment to professional excellence is further demonstrated through her active participation on various institutional technical and educational boards, including the ICAN Accounting and Audit Standards Committee.

Throughout her career, Jeanine has navigated a wide array of industries including Property and Real Estate, Fishing, Legal Practitioners, Manufacturing, Transport, Freight, Shipping and Logistics, Health and Medical, Retail, Tourism and Leisure (Public Sector), Pharmaceutical, Mining, Property Development and Construction, Agriculture and Farming.

Currently, Jeanine serves as the Managing Audit Partner of PKF-FCS Auditors and Executive Director in Walvis Bay for PKF Financial Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd, Namibia. She also contributes her expertise to the governance of the Namibia Institute of Professional Accountants (NIPA), as an invited Board Member and serve on the Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB) Educational Committee.

Ronel le Grange

Executive: Engineering & Technical Services

Ronel is a dedicated and experienced project management and business development professional with 21 years’ experience in the telecommunications industry in Namibia. She was responsible for various technological and commercial projects from the scoping and planning stages, to completion within specified time frames for both mobile operators in Namibia.

She is skilled in completing return on investment assessments, risk assessment, vendor negotiations, resource allocation and project implementation. Ronel is experienced in working with and leading cross-functional teams from technical, commercial and financial areas within young and established organizations.

Helene Vosloo

Executive: Economics & Market Development

Helene obtained a master in business administration (MBA) through the Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University in the united Kingdom. She also holds an Honors degree in Statistics from the university of the State, South Africa. Helene lectured at the university of the Free State Between 1991 and 1992 after which she joined the National Planning Commission, Central Bureau of Statistic in 1992. In 1995 she joined the Ministry of Agriculture in the Directorate of planning, from where she moved to the electricity control board until she joined CRAN in 2012 as Head Economic Sector Research.

Tanswell Davies

Executive: Governance, Risk & Compliance Management

Tanswell obtained a Baccalaureus Juris Degree (December 2005) and a Bachelor of Law Degree (December 2007) through the University of Namibia and he is currently studying towards a Master in ICT Policy and Regulation Degree through the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. He attended the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London from November 2005 to February 2006, where he completed a special program of study that focused on a legal system of Africa and Asia. Tanswell served as a member of the Namibia Rugby Union Disciplinary Committee in 2012.

He currently serves as a member of the Criminal Litigation Committee and as the Chairperson of the Bursaries and Sponsorship Committee of the Namibia Law Society. He lectured at the University of Namibia in the Law Faculty of the LLB Program on a part time basis from 2010 to 2013. He was admitted as a Legal Practitioner to the High Court in April 2009 and practiced for 4 years as a Legal Practitioner at BD Basson Legal Practitioners. In 2012, he joined PWC Auditing firm as Manager of Indirect Tax, a position he held until December 2012. He was appointed as a Legal Advisor for CRAN in 2013 to January 2015; in February 2015 he was appointed as Company Secretary for CRAN.

Lucrezia Henckert-Louw

Executive: Human Capital

Lucrezia Henckert-Louw is a seasoned Human Capital Practitioner and holds a National Diploma in Human Capital and a Bachelor of Technology degree in Human Resource from the Polytechnic of Namibia. She also holds a Senior Management Development Program qualification, which she obtained through the University of Stellenbosch Business School in the Republic of South Africa. Before joining CRAN in 2012, Lucrezia was employed by the International Training & Education Center on Health (I-TECH), where she served as a Senior Manager: Human Resources. Other previous employers include the polytechnic of Namibia where she was employed for ten years.

Lucrezia is passionate about the field of Human Resources and in establishing CRAN as an employer of choice. Her conviction that Human Resources should be an advocate for employees drives her on-going effects to strengthen CRAN’s HR department to ensure all employees are treated fairly and equally, and that needs of the business are balanced with the needs of the employees. “employees of choice are those companies that receive recognition for the way they treat employees; they are the companies for whom people want to work. Becoming an employer of choice means that Human Resources balances recruiting the most qualified applicants, selecting the most suitable candidates and retaining the most talented employees,” she states.

Elton Witbooi

Executive: Cybersecurity and ICT

Elton Witbooi holds a Diploma in Business Computing; Honours Degree in Software Engineering; Bachelor’s Degree in Administration; and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. He served in various ICT capacities in numerous public and private sector organisations, before joining CRAN on 1 February 2023 as the Executive: Cyber Security and ICT.

Mufaro Nesongano

Executive: Communication & Consumer Relations

With over 20 years of experience in broadcasting, communication, public relations, and brand management, Mr. Mufaro Nesongano has successfully led various teams in the execution of communication and stakeholder management strategies across both the private and public sector within the realms of academia, tourism and quite recently, the insurance industry.

He holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Media Technology, an Honours degree in Journalism and Communication, and a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication. Additionally, he has a certificate in Digital Transformation Strategy and Executive & Management Coaching.

Emilia Nghikembua

Chief Executive Officer

Emilia Nghikembua is the Chief Executive Officer of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN). She is the holder of a Baccalaureus Juris, Bachelor of Law and Master of Law (cum laude) degrees from the University of Namibia, respectively. Emilia also holds a Master of Arts in Information and Communications Technology; Policy and Regulation obtained from the University of the Witwatersrand and an Executive Master of Business Administration with majors in business and technology. She is an admitted legal practitioner of the High Court of Namibia.

Emilia was ranked among the top 100 African economic leaders by Institute Choiseul in 2022. The ranking identified her as among the 100 Africans under the age of 40 years, expected to play a major role in the continent’s economic development soon. In 2023, Emilia was honoured by the Windhoek Observer as one of 50 Namibians of Merit under the corporate leadership segment. Emilia is passionate about uplifting people.

Maria Moses

Executive: Finance & Administration

Maria has over 20 years of experience in the finance/accounting field, and has served as an Auditing Officer, Management Accountant, Manager: Management Accounting, and Director: Administration Services for various public and private sector organisations in the pension fund industry, ICT regulator, road sector and mining and energy sector.

Maria holds a Master of International Business, Bachelor of Technology in Accounting & Finance, National Diploma in Accounting, Certificate in Business Accounting, Certificate in Telecommunications Policy, Regulation and Management (TPRM), Certificate in Project Management and Certificate in Management Development Programme (MDP).