Namibia
•

The lack of transparency, poor fiscal management and governance at the NBC, as well as the escalating debt of the
state broadcaster.

•

Continuing under-investment in human resource development within the media. Very few, if any, privately initiated
training programmes for journalists exist.

•

The failure to set up an independent broadcasting complaints commission.

•

The fact that NCC commissioners lack an understanding of
media issues.

•

The over-commercialisation of the NBC, which results in the
state-funded broadcaster neglecting its public mandate to
inform, educate and entertain.

•

The continued lack of access to the media in rural areas,
and the absence of true community radio stations in local
languages and in rural areas.

•

Poor gender mainstreaming.

•

While it has improved since 2005, the amount of local content is still insufficient on local television and radio stations.

The main drivers or actors for positive developments
•

The perception of a change of attitude by government and
an improved political climate have made it possible to discuss media issues more openly. The democratic culture in
general has become more consultative, as a result of President Pohamba’s more inclusive approach.

African Media Barometer - Namibia 2007

55

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