Promoting safe internet use in Namibia

Joining a company he considers home to a vibrant group of experts, Elton Witbooi feels privileged to become part of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN).

Witbooi says there are many things to accomplish in his new position as the executive for cyber security and ICT at CRAN, but for now he has prioritised two areas of focus.

First, to improve CRAN through the power of information and communication technologies (ICT); and second, to promote the safe and secure use of the internet in Namibia.

He explained that his job combines the known ICT disciplines, which include service management, governance, and innovation, among others, in line with public policy.

The combination requires both technical ICT and public administration skills and, at times, demands one take on a diplomatic role, which is a departure from the usual technology-focused work.



The good and the bad

ICT is an essential part of modern society, Witbooi underlined.

"It is difficult to imagine life without it. As such, we must work to ensure that ICT services are available to all, affordable, of high quality, and safe and secure. This is a noble ideal to which I feel privileged to contribute with my role at CRAN," he said.

Witbooi agrees with the saying, "there is no rose without a thorn."

While ICT has brought improvements to our lives, it has also provided a new avenue for malicious activity, as he pointed out.

Just like the proverbial thorn in the rose bush, ICT-based criminal activity has impacted Namibians in many ways.

"Namibian businesses have suffered financial losses and reputational damage due to various kinds of cyberattacks, of which ransomware is probably the most notorious in recent times," said Witbooi.

Citizens have also suffered losses, as reports about less complicated techniques such as the use of SMS to trick people out of their hard-earned cash abound.



Notch up security

Witbooi underlined that cybersecurity, or the lack thereof, has major implications for private lives and the way in which business is conducted.

It is therefore important that due attention be paid to it.

Witbooi said Namibia needs to do its homework regarding the regulatory frameworks, which include laws, regulations, and procedures around cybercrime and privacy.

"While we have done well so far, we need to complete the work and develop the capabilities needed to implement our laws and regulations with the aim of mitigating the risks related to our use of ICT. My personal role, through this job, will be in assisting my country to do just that."