Hardap Governor Riaan McNab has called for all-sector cooperation to strengthen national resilience against cyber threats.

He made the remarks at a consultative workshop on the draft Cybercrime Bill held in Mariental, attended by stakeholders from both ||Kharas and Hardap.

The consultative workshop aims to establish a legal framework to prevent and combat cybercrime, online child exploitation and abuse, and other related offenses.

It also creates a platform for the stakeholders to contribute to the development of legislation that effectively responds to the country's cybersecurity challenge.

“If it is left unchecked, these crimes can undermine public confidence. It can weaken institutions, and it can cause significant economic and social harm. However, laws alone are not sufficient. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility where our communities need to participate, especially our youth. The government, the private sector, and civil society must work together to build resilience against cyber threats,” McNab explained.

He expressed disappointment at the turnout of stakeholders at the consultative meeting.

“I must note my concern that this is a worrisome attendance. For us not to stand up for what will matter, this is a situation we believe must change as a matter of urgency. Our house in Hardap-I know that we challenge with coordination because there are so many programmes running in between. But that does not give us any excuse for coming to platforms and doing justice for the residents of this region.”

Rehoboth West Urban Constituency Councillor, Harold Kambrude also expressed his concern.

“How are we going to deter people from committing these things?

 Kharas Regional Chief Agricultural Officer Nelson Ngarizemo shared his expectations.

" Mine is more on the public offices and public spaces. I want to maybe hear more with regard to farming. When it comes to these bills, we have to be clear, and I wanted to hear more about what is actually being said, what we are proposing, and what the bill is."