A Deputy Director in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology says there is no contradiction between the Access to Information and Data Protection Bills. 

Elizabeth Kamutueza says the two bills are different as one promotes the protection of personal information, while the other amplifies access to public information.

 The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology has so far visited the Kavango East and Erongo regions, to get input from the public on the data protection bill.

The bill intends to protect people and institutions' personal information.

Kamutueza explained that the law is meant to protect against the unintended use and abuse of personal information of institutions or individuals. She said  Namibia is lagging behind with laws of this nature and needs to catch up. 

The ministry is also promoting the access to information bill, which is currently under discussion in parliament.

Critics however have expressed concern over the two bills conflicting with each other.

The deputy director dismissed fears that the data protection bill will not hinder the work of journalists as it will bring a level of integrity to their work.

Kamutueza indicated that the biggest concern raised at the two public sessions held thus far was the practicality of protecting personal data.

Participants have also expressed fear over having too many restrictions which might impact the delivery of services to their clients.