The Namibian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the independence of state-owned media and press freedom during a benchmarking visit by a delegation from the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation to the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (nbc).

Audrin Mathe, Executive Director in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, briefed the Malawian delegation on Namibia's media governance model. 

Dr. Mathe said that once board members of state-owned entities like nbc are appointed, the government does not interfere with their operations.

"We appoint the board, and our job ends there. The board is responsible for the management of the corporation, including the appointment of the Director General, who in turn appoints other staff. We only get involved when they require financial support."

Dr. Mathe also said that Namibia currently ranks second in press freedom on the African continent, behind Mauritania. 

He attributed this to a system where ministers act as spokespersons to ensure timely access to government information, daily press briefings, and the pending implementation of an Access to Information law, which will further enhance transparency.

The Executive Director noted that although there can be dissatisfaction with media content at times, the government maintains its stance of non-interference. 

The MBC delegation's three-day visit is aimed at learning from nbc's governance, infrastructure development, and content management practices.

MBC Board Chairperson Reverend Vasco Kachipapa expressed gratitude for the reception and opportunity to learn from Namibia's experience. 

"Only to thank you in a very special way that we have been brought before you. It's an honour for us. We appreciate it and it shows the relationship that we have. Upon hearing about MACRA, we feel reassured. We have one more day, and we are looking forward to learning more from our colleagues here. Otherwise, we thank you so much for having us."