Namibia's press freedom rankings dropped to second place in Africa and to 34th position from 22 globally.

Mauritania now ranks first in Africa.

This is according to the latest annual World Press Freedom Index produced by Reporters Without Borders.

The World Press Freedom Index indicates the political and legislative environment in Namibia remains conducive to the free exercise of journalism.

The government nonetheless maintains strict control over the appointment of the boards of directors of certain publications and, consequently, over their content, as stated.
 
Globally, the report flagged that press freedom around the world is being threatened by the very people who should be its guarantors—political authorities.