Making A Better World - Milton Louw

For the regular readers of my blog you will recall my post  Law Society of Namibia leaks members details - June 2023 .   The Law Society of Namibia sent me a letter of demand to desist from unlawful acquisition and dissemination of private and confidential information of or relating to members of the Law Society of Namibia. First let us look at the events that brought about this demand:

 The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) advertised in daily newspapers for the position of Manager: Universal Fund on 25 July 2024. This has taken a long time (like many other issues at CRAN) but we hope that it will soon be operational. If we look at the history of CRAN, there are numerous issues that should have been dealt with by the Authority but never have been operationalised. Let us look at these issues that impact the lives, and pockets, of Namibian consumers Background The Communications Act 8 of 2009 established the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia to provide for the regulation of telecommunications services and networks, broadcasting, postal services and the use and allocation of radio spectrum. In the law it provides for, amongst others, the following: Universal Service Fund (Part 4); protection of consumers (Part 7); and a numbering plan that must require mobile number portability by all technology and service neutral licensees within t...

 First let us look at what AI is? Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems or machines that can perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence. In other words, AI can assist a person in doing much more work than what is normally possible. These tasks include learning from data (like humans learn from experience), recognising patterns (such as identifying faces in photos), making decisions, and understanding natural language (like how we talk to each other). For an average user this means three levels of usage, namely:  How can you use existing AI for improving your life;  How is AI used ON (or against) you; and Creating AI chatbots with information you upload to assist in answering questions suited to your needs and wants. Use existing AI for improving your life One of the most popular and well-known AI applications is ChatGPT, (an advanced conversational AI model), which allows questions, provides personalised answers and can engage in conversation. Th...

 Under the Namibian Constitution, forced labour is generally prohibited. However, there are specific provisions that allow for certain exceptions, including work by prisoners. Article 9 of the Namibian Constitution addresses slavery and forced labour: Article 9 - Slavery and Forced Labour No persons shall be held in slavery or servitude. No persons shall be required to perform forced labour. For the purposes of this Article, the expression "forced labour" shall not include:  a. Any labour required in consequence of a sentence or order of a court;  b. Any labour required of any person while he or she is lawfully detained which, though not required in consequence of a sentence or order of a court, is reasonably necessary in the interests of hygiene or for the maintenance of the place at which he or she is detained;  c. Any labour required of a member of the defence force, the police force, or the prison service in pursuance of his or her duties as such or, in the case ...

 The Road Fund Administration (RFA) commissioned a feasibility study in 2019, with a similar study done in 2008 by the Roads Authority.  The study informed that tolling can be sustainably introduced on the Namibian road network. In response, the Namibia Consumer Protection Group (NCPG) outlines the understanding of the benefits, and disadvantages. Pros of Toll Roads Revenue Generation : Toll roads provide a steady stream of revenue that can be used for road maintenance, improvements, and other infrastructure projects without relying solely on government budgets. Improved Road Quality : The revenue from tolls can ensure that roads are kept in good condition, reducing wear and tear on vehicles and improving travel safety. Reduced Traffic Congestion : Toll roads can help manage traffic flow by providing an alternative route, potentially reducing congestion on non-toll roads. Economic Efficiency : Users of toll roads pay for the specific infrastructure they use, which is a fairer ...

National medical insurance, also known as universal healthcare, has been a topic of debate in many countries. Below are the pros and cons based on insights that align with Milton Louw's progressive vision for Namibia. Pros of National Medical Insurance Universal Coverage : Ensures that all citizens have access to healthcare services, reducing health disparities and promoting social justice. Cost Control : Can lead to more efficient management of healthcare costs through centralized negotiation and purchasing. Preventive Care : Focus on preventive care can reduce the incidence of serious health issues, lowering long-term healthcare costs. Financial Protection : Protects individuals from high medical costs, preventing them from falling into poverty due to healthcare expenses. Improved Public Health : By providing widespread access to medical services, national medical insurance can improve overall public health outcomes. Economic Productivity : A healthier population can contribute t...

  Milton Louw proposes that each citizen should benefit from Namibia’s natural resources through a framework that ensures equitable distribution and utilization for national development. His approach includes several key elements: 1. Central Register of Natural Resources : A comprehensive register to track and manage licenses for natural resources, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource utilization. This register would cover all licenses for the extraction and use of natural resources, ensuring that benefits are fairly distributed and not concentrated in the hands of a few  . 2. Community Participation and Ownership : Encouraging community involvement in resource management to ensure that local populations directly benefit from the resources extracted from their areas. This includes community-based projects and cooperative models that provide employment and investment opportunities for local citizens  . 3. Revenue Distribution : Implementing ...