The Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, says in an era defined by uncertainty and rapid digital transformation, the opening of the Effective Communicators Conference serves as a powerful reminder of the pivotal role communication plays in shaping national destiny.
Officiating the event, which brings together leaders, journalists, and public officials held at Swakopmund, Theofelus said the event positioned communicators at the forefront of driving hope, progress, and economic revival in Namibia.
She acknowledged the challenges posed by past crises, including the economic recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, where communication gaps deepened public anxiety.
She states that with the enactment of the Access to Information Act and the imminent launch of a national Government Communication Strategy, Namibia is turning a corner.
Their efforts signal a renewed commitment to transparency and inclusive dialogue, she adds.
She urged embracing truth as a tool for nation-building and fighting misinformation that threatens the country's social cohesion and economic potential.
"And I would like to emphasise truthfulness here because the truth builds trust, and if communicators are trusted, misinformation and disinformation will be a thing of the past, which is what we need now more than ever. Imagine as we enter this new era of the Namibian economic space with the promising green energy industry and the oil discoveries, if Namibians are hindered from participating and meaningfully benefiting from our resources because they have been misinformed?"
NAMPA's Acting CEO Jata Kazondu emphasised the strategic timing of the event, aligning with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's first 100 days in office and the upcoming launch of the National Development Plan 6.
"In this dynamic gathering of minds, we are not merely participants but ambassadors of the power of words, the art of connection, and the essence of effective communication. Our collective presence here today underscores our shared commitment to harnessing the potential of communication to inspire, inform, and transform our world, as well as our country."
The conference serves as a platform to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and strengthen the role of communicators as agents of influence in their respective sectors.
Delegates are expected to explore how effective messaging can support national priorities and ensure every citizen is informed, engaged, and empowered in the country's development journey.