The Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, has reiterated the importance of ethical and responsible social media use.

The minister emphasised that digital platforms should be used to build the nation rather than divide it. She reiterated the importance of harnessing these platforms for positive engagement.
 
Speaking at the awards ceremony of the Ethical Use of Social Media Challenge Competition in Windhoek, Theofelus highlighted the growing influence of digital creators in shaping public opinion, particularly among young people.
 
The competition, which ran from 1 December 2025 to 23 January 2026, encouraged local social media influencers to produce original and meaningful content promoting online safety, responsible engagement, and ethical conduct on digital platforms.
 
Theofelus noted that while social media connects communities, amplifies voices, and expands access to information, it can also contribute to misinformation and social division if used irresponsibly.
 
She stressed the need for collaboration between government and local creatives, describing influencers as ambassadors capable of educating citizens on ethical online behavior.
 
 “When used responsibly, it can strengthen democracy, promote accountability, foster learning, and encourage responsible civic participation and dialogue. However, when used unethically, it can equally contribute to misinformation, to social harm, and to social division. For us, it is critical that we partner with local creatives and social media influencers to act as ambassadors of the ethical use of social media campaigns and educate our citizens on the importance of ethical online conduct and, of course, safety.”
 
 Three top-performing influencers emerged from the competition.
 
The winners shared a total prize value of N$20,000.
 
The overall winner received N$15,000 with the first runner-up receiving N$3,000 and the second runner-up receiving N$2,000.
 
Theofelus emphasised that the initiative was about more than prize money; it was about encouraging thoughtful and responsible digital participation.
 
She reminded attendees that harmful words typed behind a screen can have the same impact as those spoken face-to-face, urging Namibians to maintain kindness and responsibility online.