Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Ms Emma Theofelus has officially opened the 9th ICT Summit currently taking place in Ongwediva.
The five-day event started yesterday, and ending on Friday has brought together IT experts, tech company managers and digital entrepreneurs mostly from Windhoek and abroad.
Theofelus, who was the keynote speaker at a gathering of close to 200 people, said that t summit provides an important opportunity to reflect on the role of information and communication technology in shaping the Namibian economy, creating opportunities for young people and improving the lives of citizens.
“This year’s theme, ‘Harnessing ICT for Inclusive Growth: Digital Pathways to Reduce Unemployment and Eradicate Poverty,’ speaks directly to some of the most pressing development priorities facing our country,” Theofelus said.
“It challenges us to consider how we can use technology not only to modernise our systems, but also to create meaningful opportunities, expand access to services and ensure that no Namibian is left behind in the digital age.”
She said that it was the first time the ICT summit is taking place outside of Windhoek “because we want to bring these talks closer to citizens, the people we serve – innovate for, offer services for, regulate for.”
The minister stated that youth unemployment remains a significant concern, and addressing it requires practical, forward-looking interventions.
“The digital economy offers opportunities for young Namibians to develop skills, establish businesses, provide services beyond their immediate communities and participate in emerging industries.
“However, these opportunities will not be realised automatically. Young people need access to relevant digital skills, reliable connectivity, mentorship, financing and platforms through which they can turn their ideas into viable products and services.
“Skills in software development, coding, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, digital marketing and technology-driven entrepreneurship are increasingly important.
“Equipping young people with these skills can help them access employment, create their own opportunities and contribute to Namibia’s innovation ecosystem.”
Theofelus further pointed at ‘Project 1000’, through which beneficiaries have been recruited as part of the Ministry’s efforts to equip young Namibians with practical digital skills and connect them to opportunities in the growing digital economy.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to moving beyond discussions about youth unemployment and towards practical interventions that prepare our young people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy, contribute to innovation and take advantage of emerging employment opportunities.”
She also stated that inclusive growth requires everyone to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation reach all segments of society.
“Women and girls, persons with disabilities, rural communities and other groups that face barriers to access must be included in our digital development efforts.
“We must continue to promote accessible digital services, relevant training and opportunities that enable people from different backgrounds to participate in the digital economy.
“Technology should help remove barriers, not reinforce existing inequalities.”
The minister commended all entrepreneurs, enterprises, individuals and institutions taking part in this year’s summit for their commitment to contributing to this national platform and help move the country technological and digital transformation forward.
“Government can provide policy direction and an enabling environment,” Theofelus said, “but the private sector, academia, development partners, civil society and young people themselves all have important roles to play.
“We need stronger partnerships that connect education and training with the changing needs of industry. We need businesses that are willing to mentor young innovators and provide opportunities for practical experience.
“We need educational institutions that equip learners with relevant skills, and we need policies that encourage innovation while protecting the public interest. The National ICT Summit provides a platform for these conversations and partnerships.
“It brings together people with different experiences, expertise and ideas, creating an opportunity to identify practical solutions to Namibia’s development challenges.”
In the photo: ICT Minister Emma Theofelus cutting the ribbon signifying the opening of the ICT Summit. While Ongwediva Mayor, Naemi Amuthenu, Deputy Mayor Jeremia Amutenya, and OATF Society Chairperson Rebbeka Hidulika look on.
