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Namibia to Develop AI Policy for Civil Servants
The Ministry of ICT is working with the Office of the Prime Minister on guidelines for AI use in government, alongside broader efforts to expand digital skills, improve connectivity and promote digital transformation.
By: Elizabeth Naftal
Namibia is set to develop an internal policy guiding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by civil servants, following a Cabinet directive to the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Speaking at the official opening of the 9th National ICT Summit in Ongwediva on Tuesday, Information and Communication Technology Minister, Emma Theofelus said the policy would guide civil servants on the use of AI in the public service, including the safeguards required.
“The Office of the Prime Minister and MICT have been directed by Cabinet to develop an internal policy that will guide civil servants on how to use AI in the public service, and all the guardrails that come with it,” she said.
An Artificial Intelligence policy for civil servant is crucial because it establishes blue operational guardrails, protects public trust and ensures that automated tools enhance rather than compromise-democratic accountability fairness and data protection.
Theofelus also highlighted the role of digital skills in addressing youth unemployment, saying young people need relevant training, reliable connectivity, mentorship and financing to benefit from opportunities in the digital economy.
''Through Project 1000, the ministry is working to equip young Namibians with practical digital skills and connect them with opportunities in emerging technology-driven industries'' she added.
She further emphasised the need to expand broadband infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities, to ensure more Namibians can access online learning, employment opportunities and digital services.
“Connectivity is not simply about having internet access, it is about what people can do once they are connected,” Theofelus said.
The minister also pointed to the DigiNAM initiative, which supports secure online identification, electronic signatures and digital transactions, saying trust is essential as Namibia expands its digital services.
The summit is being held under the theme “Harnessing ICT for Inclusive Growth: Digital Pathways to Reduce Unemployment and Eradicate Poverty.”
