Staff Reporter
VICE President Lucia Witbooi has called on communicators to strengthen public trust by promoting accurate information, combating misinformation and embracing ethical communication, saying effective communication is essential for good governance and national development.
Witbooi made the remarks at the official opening the 2026 Effective Communicators Conference (ECC26) at The Dome in Swakopmund, where government communicators, media professionals, public relations practitioners and communication experts from across Africa gathered under the theme “Communication Reconsidered: A Driving Force for Constant Progress.”
The three-day conference focuses on how strategic communication can support development, strengthen public confidence in institutions and shape the future of the communications profession.
In her opening address, Witbooi said communication has become the backbone of trust, nation-building and democratic unity, particularly in an era marked by rapid digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the spread of misinformation.
She urged communicators in both the public and private sectors to ensure that facts, truth and clarity prevail over misinformation and disinformation.
“You must be champions of truth and agents of change. You are the vital link that ensures government programmes are not just implemented, but truly understood and appreciated by the public,” she said.
Witbooi encouraged delegates to use the conference to develop practical solutions that will strengthen communication systems in Namibia and across the region.
She said government communicators play a critical role in supporting the implementation of Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6) by improving public awareness, institutional coordination, digital inclusion and community engagement.
“We recognise that effective communication between government, people and institutions is crucial for bringing clarity, alignment and trust. It is essential for driving positive change and enabling informed decision-making,” she said.
The Vice President also called for stronger investment in communication structures and greater support for communicators to enable them to respond effectively to misinformation.
She said government expects the conference to produce practical recommendations on strengthening credibility, adapting to emerging trends and improving the way African stories are told.
Botswana Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe, who delivered the keynote address, urged Africans to tell their own stories with honesty, confidence and pride.
He said effective communication is central to building trust, countering misinformation and showcasing Africa’s achievements, opportunities and aspirations to the world.
Gaolathe said communicators have an important responsibility to shape accurate, solution-driven narratives that reflect the continent’s realities and potential.
The conference also featured remarks from Erongo Governor Neville Andre, Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus, international partners and industry leaders, who highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening strategic communication.
Following the conference, Gaolathe visited the Botswana Container Terminal at the Port of Walvis Bay, where he received a briefing on the strategic role of the Botswana Dry Port in facilitating regional trade through the Trans-Kalahari Corridor.
The visit underscored the longstanding partnership between Namibia and Botswana in promoting regional integration, trade and economic growth within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Photo: Ministry of Information and Communication Technology – Republic of Namibia
