Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus has officially launched the 2026-2030 Community Media Policy and its implementation plan at Okakarara in the Otjozondjupa Region.
Theofelus said the policy is a national framework to support the growth, sustainability, and professionalisation of local radio stations, community newspapers, and digital platforms.
She explained that the policy was created to bridge the information gaps, exclusion, misinformation and limited participation in public discourse and governance.
"This policy recognises community media as a key driver of democratic participation, socioeconomic development, social cohesion and, of course, cultural preservation. The policy is grounded in principles that are central to Namibia’s values as a democratic nation. These include the promotion of our hard-won human rights, the protection of our cultural diversity, the encouragement of media pluralism, the strengthening of social cohesion, and the advancement of peaceful coexistence."
Theofelus added the policy's mission is to provide strategic direction and support for the growth and sustainability of community media to ensure that the diverse communication needs of the people are met through inclusive and accessible platforms.
Chairperson of Namibia Community Broadcaster Network, Levi Katire welcomed the policy launch.
“Community media provides access to information, promotes local language and culture, strengthens citizen participation, supports education and also contributes to socioeconomic development at the grassroots level, and this can actually never be ignored. That's why today the community media framework policy provides a framework that we will utilise for the next 5 years and beyond.”
UNESCO National Program Officer Aina Heita-Kantewa also spoke at the event.
“From the Windhoek Declaration in 1991, to the Windhoek Plus 13 Declaration in 2021 and the Access to Information Act in 2022, Namibia has consistently demonstrated leadership in building an open and transparent information environment.”
Okakarara Constituency Councillor Bethuel Tjazerua explained.
“The launch of this policy therefore represents a significant milestone in strengthening Namibia's communication landscape and demonstrates the government's commitment to equitable access to information across all parts of the country.”