Namibia
Sector 3:

3.1

Broadcasting regulation is transparent and
independent, the state broadcaster is transformed
into a truly public broadcaster

Broadcasting is regulated by an independent body
adequately protected against interference, particularly of
a political and economic nature.

ANALYSIS:
The Namibian Communications Commission (NCC) is ostensibly an
independent broadcasting regulator. However, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting is solely responsible for appointing NCC
councillors, and as a result a certain level of political interference
is possible.
It is worth noting that David Imbili, the present chairperson of the
NCC, has no media experience although he is particularly well connected politically, being the son-in-law of the former Namibian
president, Sam Nujoma. As a result, the credibility of the NCC is
tainted and this could compromise the body’s theoretical independence. It is also questionable whether the commissioners of the NCC
are equipped to guide developments in the media landscape.
The NCC does not appear to be a proactive body in terms of monitoring adherence to its regulations. It has no monitoring department
but waits for complaints before taking action. It was felt that there
should be an independent broadcasting complaints commission.
The NCC does not regulate the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation
(NBC).

26

African Media Barometer - Namibia 2007

Select target paragraph3