Namibia grapples with evolving tech’s corruption

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says Namibia is facing a hurdle in tackling corruption due to the use of sophisticated technologies.

“New and evolving challenges are emerging. One of the most pressing challenges we face is the increasing use of technology in corruption schemes,” she said at the Global Anti-Corruption Forum in Paris.

“Cybercrime and other digital threats are becoming more sophisticated and complex to detect. We should, therefore, remain vigilant and work together to harmonise our laws, share information, and coordinate enforcement efforts.”

To address the challenges, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said there is an urgent need for increased transparency, robust regulatory frameworks, and enhanced monitoring mechanisms. These, she said, are crucial to prevent and detect illicit financial activities through which large amounts of resources are siphoned out of mainly natural resources endowed countries.]

“Many of these countries, most of which are developing countries, a large part of whose populations are poor, are forced as a result of this into high and unsustainable debt. Therefore, sharing capacity for strengthening anti-corruption measures, including in the area of strengthening the governance framework, enhancing financial intelligence capabilities, promoting information sharing and holding perpetrators accountable are vital steps in curbing illicit financial flows,” she recommended. 

Despite all these impediments, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said Namibia remains steadfast in its commitment to combating corruption and promoting integrity in all spheres of its society.

She said the country has implemented several measures including the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Financial Intelligence Centre, as well as the enactment of the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Act to combat corruption.

Since the establishment of ACC, the Prime Minister said 768 dockets have been submitted to the Prosecutor General for prosecution, and 343 cases have been concluded in court as of the 2022-2023 financial year.