Namibia edges closer to digitalisation dream
• Protecting, preserving our archives
The app was spearheaded by Switzerland-based Namibian archivist Hertha Ipinge, who was awarded N$380 000 in funding for the project.
Government - in conjunction with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) and various other stakeholders - last week launched the country’s first-ever national archives mobile application.
Founded by Namibian archivist Hertha Ipinge, who lives in Switzerland, work on the application started in September 2023 and was completed in December.
Ipinge applied for funding for the project from Unesco and was awarded N$380 000.
During the launch, deputy education minister Faustina Caley said Namibians have the mandate to protect and preserve the nation's archives with innovative concepts.
"Archives are our cultural heritage and the foundation of our national identity. They reflect our shared history, diverse traditions and the collective journey that has brought us to where we are today.
“As custodians of this invaluable heritage, we must ensure the accessibility, protection and preservation of these records for future generations. It is not just a software innovation, but a demonstration of our dedication to utilising technology to enhance access to our archival collections," she said.
Tireless effort
Caley further commended the "tireless effort, countless research hours and a collaborative spirit" that went into the creation of the app.
"I commend the Namibia National Commission for Unesco’s team under the leadership of [acting secretary-general] Waldo Junius for their support throughout the process. Your commitment to this project has established the basis for a new era in archival practices.
“The Namibia archival application is more than just a tool; it serves as a gateway to various archival collections, which can be accessed simultaneously," she said.
Meanwhile, Junius said innovations like this make him proud to be Namibian. He applauded Namibia for its efforts to create projects that set it apart globally.
"I have nothing but a heart full of gratitude to be a part of this country that is at the forefront of innovation globally.
“Out of 194 [Unesco] member states, Namibia is always on the list of countries who do exceptionally well, and is invited to speak on its growth," he said.
"It is not about the funding, but what one does with it," he added, urging citizens to approach his office with innovative projects that need funding.
Founded by Namibian archivist Hertha Ipinge, who lives in Switzerland, work on the application started in September 2023 and was completed in December.
Ipinge applied for funding for the project from Unesco and was awarded N$380 000.
During the launch, deputy education minister Faustina Caley said Namibians have the mandate to protect and preserve the nation's archives with innovative concepts.
"Archives are our cultural heritage and the foundation of our national identity. They reflect our shared history, diverse traditions and the collective journey that has brought us to where we are today.
“As custodians of this invaluable heritage, we must ensure the accessibility, protection and preservation of these records for future generations. It is not just a software innovation, but a demonstration of our dedication to utilising technology to enhance access to our archival collections," she said.
Tireless effort
Caley further commended the "tireless effort, countless research hours and a collaborative spirit" that went into the creation of the app.
"I commend the Namibia National Commission for Unesco’s team under the leadership of [acting secretary-general] Waldo Junius for their support throughout the process. Your commitment to this project has established the basis for a new era in archival practices.
“The Namibia archival application is more than just a tool; it serves as a gateway to various archival collections, which can be accessed simultaneously," she said.
Meanwhile, Junius said innovations like this make him proud to be Namibian. He applauded Namibia for its efforts to create projects that set it apart globally.
"I have nothing but a heart full of gratitude to be a part of this country that is at the forefront of innovation globally.
“Out of 194 [Unesco] member states, Namibia is always on the list of countries who do exceptionally well, and is invited to speak on its growth," he said.
"It is not about the funding, but what one does with it," he added, urging citizens to approach his office with innovative projects that need funding.
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