As digital adoption deepens across the country, Namibia is moving to strengthen its legal and infrastructure framework by fast-tracking cybercrime and data protection laws while expanding internet access to underserved regions.
Speaking in Windhoek, Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus said public consultations on the draft Cybercrime Bill will resume next month. The move comes as authorities intensify efforts to respond to rising online risks linked to a growing digital population.
The proposed Cybercrime Bill seeks to address a wide range of online offences, including harassment, cyberstalking, image-based abuse, and the misuse of deepfake technology. Theofelus said the legislation is designed to safeguard citizens as Namibia’s digital footprint continues to expand.
She also confirmed that the long-pending Data Protection Bill is ready to be re-submitted to cabinet, an essential step before it is presented in parliament. Once enacted, the law is expected to introduce stronger rules governing how personal data is collected, stored, and used by both government bodies and private organisations.
Alongside legal reforms, the government is advancing rural connectivity through the Universal Service Fund. The initiative has already supported the construction of new telecommunications towers and enabled free internet access for schools and healthcare facilities in remote communities.
Cybersecurity expert and Namibia International Cybersecurity Conference convener Michael Mayumbula Chikwililwa said the combined focus on legislation and digital infrastructure is crucial.
“Improving connectivity without strong cyber laws leaves communities exposed,” Chikwililwa said. “As more Namibians come online, especially in rural areas, there has to be a clear legal framework to protect users from abuse, fraud and privacy violations.”
He added that the decision to resume consultations on the Cybercrime Bill sends a strong message about the government’s intent.
“The inclusion of issues like deepfakes and image-based abuse shows an understanding of how quickly online threats are evolving,” Chikwililwa said. “The challenge now will be effective implementation and public awareness once these laws are in place.”
Namibia has been steadily working to modernise its digital governance framework as part of broader efforts to promote inclusive development and support economic growth in the digital economy.
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