The report, produced by the Research, Science and Technology Committee (NCRST) in collaboration with UNESCO and supported by the Japanese government, evaluates Namibia's preparation across legal, technical, social, educational and economic aspects.
Namibia has released its groundbreaking artificial intelligence preparation assessment report positioned to leverage the potential of AI transformation while committing to ethical, inclusive and sustainable development.
Produced by the National Committee on Research and Science and Technology (NCRST). In cooperation with UNESCO With support from the Japanese government, the report evaluates Namibia's preparation across legal, technical, social, educational and economic aspects.
The assessment highlights the urgency to formal AI regulatory frameworks, public awareness and expanding infrastructure, while highlighting AI commitments to sectors such as agriculture, water, energy, health, education, climate change and security.
Namibia has already integrated AI priorities into its national plan. This includes Draft National Development Plan 6 and Haramby Prosperity Plan II. The proposed National Institute of Responsible AI, the AI-centric degree program at Namibia University, the University of Science and Technology, and the establishment of high-performance computing centres demonstrate strong institutional momentum.
The report is based on global best practices in conjunction with the African Union's Continental AI Strategy, the Windhook Statement on AI in South Africa, and UNESCO's recommendations on AI ethics. The recommendations call for transparent and accountable AI systems, robust data protection laws, mitigation of algorithm bias, and secure AI deployment in critical infrastructure.
Namibia is moving forward with digital policies that include draft data protection bills and national cybersecurity strategies, but challenges remain. In particular, there is a lack of binding AI laws and limited domestic AI expertise. This report concludes with a call to action order: transition from assessment to implementation, ensuring that AI is used for public interest, innovation and equitable growth.
