Cybercrime bill on the cards

Minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus says a cybercrime bill is currently being drafted.

The bill seeks to address the growing threat of cyberattacks and to protect citizens’ data.
Theofelus said this at the Mobile Telecommunications Company’s technology conference at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair yesterday.

She said the country must ensure that cyberspace remains safe and secure.

“This bill will provide the necessary legal framework to combat cyberthreats, protect our citizens, and safeguard our national digital infrastructure,” she said.

In addition, the minister said, the data protection bill is currently before a Cabinet committee on legislation.

She said the major components of this bill align with international best practices, such as the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) of the European Union and those of the International Telecommunications Union.

Theofelus said Namibia’s data protection standards meet global expectations, thereby boosting confidence in digital economy and making the nation an attractive destination for foreign investment and collaboration.

Namibia is currently also finalising its national emergency telecommunications plan, the minister said.

She said this plan is essential to ensure that the country’s communication networks remain resilient during emergencies, thus safeguarding lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

Theofelus said her ministry is actively contributing to the development of the sixth National Development Plan.

“We are focused on developing tech industries within our borders, empowering our citizens to participate in the digital economy, and positioning Namibia as a hub for technological innovation,” she said.

“A key project that will be part of our submissions is the development of an information and communication technology hub in the capital,” she said.

The land for this purpose has already been earmarked.

“This hub is expected to attract both local and international tech companies, create jobs, and provide solutions to many of the challenges faced by our business community,” the minister said.

Speaking at the same event, MTC chief executive Licky Erastus said technology has become the universal language that unites various facets of society – from urban centres to rural communities.

He said to fully leverage this potential, tailored digital solutions that meet local needs are essential.

“The evolution of technology is fast, and almost every aspect of business is moving towards digitalisation,” he said.