Namibia plans to accelerate digital reforms, with government moving to fast-track cybercrime and data protection legislation while expanding internet access in rural areas.

Speaking in Windhoek, Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus, said consultations on the draft cybercrime bill will resume next month, targeting online harassment, cyberstalking, image-based abuse and the misuse of deepfakes. She added that the Data Protection Bill is ready for re-submission to cabinet before being tabled in parliament.

Meanwhile, government continues to roll out rural connectivity through the Universal Service Fund, which has financed new telecom towers providing free internet to schools and clinics.

For more,  Michael Mayumbula Chikwililwa, expert in cybersecurity and a convener of the Namibia International Cybersecurity Conference.