The Executive Director of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT), Linda Aipinge-Nakale, says Namibia's digital transformation is entering a new phase where technology must not only function but must work for the people.
Speaking at the TechHuddle event in Windhoek, Aipinge-Nakale said the focus is shifting from building secure systems and reliable infrastructure to ensuring that technology meaningfully serves citizens.
Aipinge-Nakale stated that while the ministry's mandate remains unchanged, there is now a stronger emphasis on accessibility, inclusion, and impact in ICT development.
She stressed that real progress in ICT rollout and adoption can only be achieved through strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, warning that technology alone does not guarantee transformation unless systems are accessible and inclusive.
"The TechHuddle brought together industry experts who reflected on two decades of digital transformation, highlighting the rapid rise of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and mobile technology – and the growing need for trust in digital systems."
Cybersecurity specialist Vanessa Maresch says the gap between usage and understanding remains a major concern.
"People thought it was going to take off and going to take over the world, but it didn't. And I think I'd like to believe it's because people have become more aware of the invasiveness of specific kinds of technologies. I mean, AR and VR track your eye movements. If you've got a smartwatch, it tracks your heartbeat. This is extremely personal information. And now, coupling that with what's going on in terms of our tech giants putting profit over people, it becomes a very big concern because they are using all that stuff for marketing and advertising purposes."
She warned that while cloud services offer efficiency and convenience, both individuals and organisations must be aware of what data access they are granting to third-party providers.
"Our children are fundamental in educating us on how to use AI because they will be driving the future of whether we will have a responsible and ethical AI. So they have to learn to use AI not to replace human activities and behaviour but rather as an assistant and to support them in their transformation journey."
The Tech-Huddle concluded with a call for stronger collaboration, digital awareness, and inclusive innovation as Namibia advances its digital transformation journey.