The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (nbc) will once again deploy its teams to the regions to cover the national elections.
Director General Stanley Similo sent off the journalists this afternoon, where he emphasised the importance of credible reporting.
The Director General also addressed the challenges reporters might face in the field, emphasising the importance of teamwork, coordination, and data verification.
“You are about credibility. Now you’re going to be going into the regions for those, and as was said earlier on, once people know you are the nbc, a couple of things will play out. Either they will accept you warmly, or they may come to you very most probably not in such a welcoming fashion, simply because they love you. And you know why they say there is a very thin line between love and hate. So even if people are negative towards you, please don’t see it in that light. It’s just another way of expressing the appreciation that they’re having when we work for nbc. We are not politicians.”
The Chief of News and Programming, Menesia Muinjo, highlighted the broadcaster’s evolution over the years, currently offering the news on multiple platforms.
“For the first time, with the assistance of our DG, we covered all the political manifestos. The nation is looking up to us and has been watching and listening to see how we are handling this task. The Presidential and National Assembly Elections are taking place against the backdrop of democracy that is maturing, and we are cognisant of the fact that these elections are dynamic with twenty-one registered political parties.”
Head of Department for News and Current Affairs Peter Denk reiterated the organisation’s trust in the journalists’ ability to excel and deliver a quality service.
Denk emphasised the importance of dedication and professionalism, cautioning them to brace for any challenge.
“We have a lot of trust, and we have confidence in you to do us very proud. So do the best that you can. You will be accosted by many people having different views. Even animals like elephants will be on your way. There will be rhinos, so treat them with respect. That is the bottom line, and they will also respect you.”
The Head of Department for nbc Radio Services pointed out the crucial role radio plays in rural areas.
“There are a lot of people who rely solely on radio for information, especially people in rural areas who do not have televisions or have access to the internet; they only depend on radio for information, so you need to put that at the back of your mind. They trust us, and they believe whatever you say, so you need to give credible information.”
The corporation also held refresher training in preparation for the elections.