Financial journalism can no longer be treated as a specialised field but must become a key tool for helping citizens understand and participate in Namibia's economic development.
This was said by the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation's (NBC) Director-General Menesia Muinjo at the launch of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa Financial Journalism Training Programme in Windhoek today.
The Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa partners with Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), the International University of Management (IUM) and Strathmore Business School.
NBC Director-General Menesia Muinjo said as the country's economy becomes more complex, journalists will need specialised skills to explain issues such as public finance, investment, taxation and economic policy.
Muinjo emphasised that strong financial journalism is essential if citizens are to meaningfully participate in discussions about the country's future.
"A nation preparing for economic growth requires journalists who can explain complex issues in ways that help citizens participate meaningfully in development and hold institutions accountable."
Acting Associate Dean at NUST, Dr Gloria Shoopala, says the initiative comes at a time when the country is attracting growing international attention through developments in sectors such as oil and gas, mining, energy and infrastructure.
"Financial journalism sits exactly at this intersection. It requires analytical thinking, business understanding, public policy awareness, data interpretation, ethical judgement, and the ability to communicate complexity in ways that empower societies."
The Pro-Vice Chancellor for Administration and Management at IUM, Dr Hendrina Udjombala, noted that access to credible and well-researched financial information is essential for informed decision-making and national development.
"This is a pivotal moment to launch this programme in Namibia, particularly as our economy explores new opportunities in the energy sector. Having industrial expertise is essential. But we also meet professionals with strong and electric writing skills who can translate this data and uphold institutional standards of governance and accountability."
Bank Windhoek Chief Treasurer Claire Hobbs adds that journalists have an important role to play in helping citizens understand how economic developments affect their everyday lives.
The Africa Corporate Philanthropy Bloomberg's programme manager, Ndivhuwo Nemukula, explained that the programme is open to journalists as well as professionals interested in communicating economic and financial issues.
Namibia is the tenth African country to host the programme, which aims to strengthen economic and financial reporting skills among journalists and other professionals.