Govt AI policy in the works to guide civil servants

Cabinet has directed the information and communication technology ministry and the prime minister’s office to develop an internal policy to guide civil servants on the use of artificial intelligence (AI).Minister Emma Theofelus announced this at the official opening of the 9th National ICT Summit at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre on Tuesday.The minister said the policy will include guardrails for responsible use of AI as government moves towards digital transformation.Theofelus said the summit, held under the theme 'Harnessing ICT for Inclusive Growth: Digital Pathways to Reduce Unemployment and Eradicate Poverty', is geared towards creating a platform for stakeholders to agree on Namibia's technology direction."We have this ICT summit not for the sake of it but to create a convening of minds," she said.Integrating modern techAI, cloud computing, e-commerce and automation are changing how people live, learn, work and do business, Theofelus said, and Namibia must ensure its young people are prepared to participate in the digital economy.She said youth unemployment will not be solved by discussions alone, pointing to Project 1000, through which the ministry is equipping young Namibians with practical skills in coding, software development, cybersecurity, data science and digital entrepreneurship.Theofelus stressed that digital opportunities can only be inclusive if communities are connected, saying the ministry continues to prioritise broadband expansion and the universal access and service fund to connect underserved areas.Moreover, the ministry in collaboration with the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) is advancing the DigiNam initiative for secure digital identity, e-signatures and digital transactions.In addition, the national emergency telecommunications plan 2025-2030 aims to maintain critical communication during disasters.Theofelus also revealed that Namibia now has a seat on the AI for Good Global Commission, where global AI rules are being shaped.She urged young people not to see themselves only as users of technology but as creators and innovators shaping Namibia's digital future.The five-day summit, which brings together government, the private sector, academia and innovators, concludes this Friday.

Govt AI policy in the works to guide civil servants

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-10-15

Please login to leave a comment

Govt AI policy in the works to guide civil servants

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-10-15

Please login to leave a comment

Subscription Required to Access Content ×

Login

Subscription Required to Access Content