The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and the Electricity Control Board (ECB) will collaborate on a series of consumer education programmes to raise awareness about electricity usage, tariffs, and safety.

This collaboration was announced during the ECB management’s visit to NBC Director General Menesia Muinjo.

The two entities are developing a memorandum of understanding to strengthen stakeholder and consumer education, particularly in rural areas that have experienced high rates of electricity-related incidents.

With a reach of approximately 2.4 million people across television, radio, and digital platforms, NBC is well-positioned to disseminate the message nationwide.

Pinehas Mutota, ECB Executive for Economic & Market Regulation, said: “There has been some work done on a service-level agreement or memorandum of understanding that we want to finalize. Nelson has already indicated immediate initiatives we can start working on to operationalize our engagement and consultations to further get our message across.”

Nelson Ashipala, ECB Head of Stakeholder Engagement & Communication, emphasized the importance of energy and sustainability in the sector. “Together with your team, we have been working on an MOU that we hope will be signed soon. We are considering crafting a television programme focused on energy, with various stakeholders presenting,” he said.

Muinjo highlighted the importance of tailored information dissemination across NBC programmes. She called on state-owned enterprises to utilize NBC platforms to communicate developmental projects that contribute to national goals.

“My challenge to all SOEs is to come on board. They are busy with critical activities that need to be reflected and shared with the nation. NBC’s mandate is clear: to ensure the audience understands the work of every SOE or government entity. The public should make use of the platform created by the shareholder,” she said.

The ECB will also train journalists in energy-related terminology to enhance understanding and improve the quality of information dissemination.