In his presentation, Dr. Simeon Hamukoshi of the NCRST noted that the report’s findings highlight notable progress in Namibia’s readiness to adopt and govern AI, including improved connectivity, the integration of AI ethics into university curricula, and growing recognition of AI as a driver of economic growth. However, he cautioned that challenges persist, such as the absence of a formal AI regulatory framework, the need to finalize the Data Protection Bill, limited electricity access in rural areas, gaps in AI-related skills, and a shortage of AI training data in Indigenous languages.
To address these gaps, the report recommends establishing a comprehensive national AI governance framework, increasing research and development funding, strengthening rural infrastructure, investing in AI literacy at all levels of education, and supporting local AI startups. It also urges greater integration of AI into healthcare, language technologies, environmental sustainability, and digital government services.