Monopolies in Namibia - The Good, the Bad, and the Complex

Monopolies are often blamed for high prices or poor service, as some companies, when free from competition, may charge more or deliver less. The typical argument is that introducing competition will automatically lower prices and improve service. But is competition always beneficial? In this article, we explore the different types of monopolies, their origins, and whether competition is always the best solution.

What Are Monopolies?

A monopoly occurs when a single company or entity controls the supply of a product or service, limiting choices for consumers. This control allows the monopoly to set prices, often higher than they would be in a competitive market. In Namibia, we see different types of monopolies:

1. Selling Monopolies: A company is the only supplier of a product, forcing customers to accept the prices it sets.

2. Producing Monopolies: A company controls the entire production process or source of supply, giving it significant influence over the market.

3. Trading Monopolies: A company controls the distribution or marketing channel between the supplier and the customer, dictating the terms under which products are sold.

These monopolies can be either national (operating countrywide) or local (limited to a particular area).

How Do Monopolies Gain Power?

Monopolies typically acquire their power in one of three ways:

1. Political Monopolies: These are created by government regulations or special grants, where only one company is permitted to operate. Examples include state-controlled utilities like electricity, water, or telecommunications. Such monopolies exist to ensure universal access to essential services, particularly in areas that private companies might avoid due to lack of profitability. These monopolies often require a Universal Service Fund when they are deregulated, ensuring services reach all citizens.

2. Economic Monopolies: These arise when a company gains control over a scarce natural resource, allowing it to dominate the market and set prices. Many of these monopolies could have been avoided with better foresight or regulation.

3. Trading Monopolies: These occur when a company owns subsidiaries that operate both at the wholesale and retail levels, allowing it to control the market and reduce competition. By "sharing costs" between different parts of the business, these monopolies are able to undercut competitors.

Government Policy on Monopolies

How do ordinary citizens perceive monopolies versus competition? Most people agree that competition is generally positive because it leads to lower prices. However, views change depending on individual circumstances. For example, many may welcome lower prices but also worry that foreign competition could drive down wages, as seen with Zimbabwean labourers in Namibia. 

The question then becomes: When is a monopoly acceptable? The answer lies in government regulation. Monopolies are often necessary in industries that require significant infrastructure investment, such as utilities. In such cases, competition would be impractical, as it would require duplicating expensive infrastructure. Therefore, some monopolies are tolerated as long as they are effectively regulated by the government.

In Namibia, we accept that monopolies are essential for developing and maintaining national infrastructure—such as roads, electricity grids, and telecommunications networks. However, competition should be encouraged in the provision of services that utilize these infrastructures.

Conclusion

Monopolies play a crucial role in Namibia’s development, especially when it comes to essential infrastructure. However, it is important to ensure that these monopolies do not engage in anti-competitive practices. One way to address this is by separating the ownership of infrastructure from the provision of services. For instance, Telecom Namibia could be split into two entities: one that manages the physical infrastructure and works in partnership with the government to ensure universal access, and another that operates as a commercial company competing with other service providers. This would promote competition in the services sector while ensuring that essential infrastructure continues to serve all Namibians.

Namibia's Call for Consumer Protection - 24 years later

I have made a short list of the main issues I believe should be included in the Consumer Protection legislation for Namibia:

1. Consumers have the right to cancel a reservation or pre-booking for any goods or services and to cancel any order for any goods or services.

2. Consumers may cancel a fixed-term agreement (of any term) at any time.

3. Suppliers must provide a quote or estimate prior to working on any goods.

4. The rendering of services or the goods required to perform any service must be in a manner and of a quality that persons are generally entitled to expect and be free of any defect.

5. The CPA must impose strict liability on producers, importers, distributors or retailers to supply safe goods and imposes strict liability in respect of product failure, defective and hazardous goods.

6. A mandatory three-month warranty period must be imposed on service providers who install any new or reconditioned part during repair or maintenance work.

349

7. A consumer is entitled to return unsafe or defective goods, including goods that are not of a good quality.

8. A consumer who is the recipient of unsolicited goods or services is not obliged to pay for such goods or services

9. Consumer must have the right to cancel a transaction or agreement emanating from Direct Marketing.

10. Goods or services must not be promoted in a misleading, fraudulent or deceptive manner.

11. The CPA should also create a “Small Claims Court” for matter under N $ 50,000.00.

12. Lastly, and most importantly, the legislation should create and support national consumer organisations to promote and provide consumer literacy education.

Manifesto for Namibia’s Youth - Shaping the Future Together

 Introduction

Namibia’s youth are the heartbeat of our nation, the driving force that will propel us into a future filled with promise and possibility. As we stand on the brink of transformative change, it is you — our young people — who will lead the way. This manifesto is a commitment to you, recognising your challenges, your dreams, and your undeniable potential to shape the future of Namibia.

1. Economic Empowerment: Building Wealth Together
We understand that financial security and independence are crucial to your future. To achieve this, we will:

Promote Youth Entrepreneurship:

• Establish a Youth Innovation Fund to provide grants and low-interest loans for young entrepreneurs. We will simplify the process for starting and registering businesses, ensuring that your ideas can quickly turn into reality.

Support Cooperative Initiatives:

• Encourage the formation of youth-led cooperatives that focus on shared economic goals, such as savings and credit cooperatives, which allow you to pool resources and gain financial independence.

Job Creation:

• Partner with industries to create internship and apprenticeship programs that provide real-world experience and job opportunities for young Namibians. Special attention will be given to sectors like technology, renewable energy, and agriculture, which are poised for growth.

2. Education and Skills Development: Preparing for Tomorrow
The foundation of a prosperous future lies in a well-educated and skilled population. We will:

Enhance ICT Education:

• Invest in ICT infrastructure in schools and communities, ensuring that every young Namibian has access to the digital tools and training needed to compete globally.

Expand Vocational Training:

• Increase the availability of vocational training programs that equip you with practical skills in trades and services, directly linking education to employment opportunities.

Revamp the Education System:

• Advocate for an education system that focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and innovation, moving beyond rote learning to prepare you for the challenges of the modern world.

3. Civic Engagement and Political Participation: Your Voice Matters
Your voice and your vote are powerful tools for change. We will:

Encourage Youth Participation in Governance:

• Establish platforms for regular dialogue between youth and policymakers, ensuring your perspectives are heard and acted upon in government decisions.

Civic Education Programs:

• Launch initiatives that educate young Namibians on their rights and responsibilities as citizens, empowering you to engage meaningfully in the democratic process.

Youth Quotas in Government:

• Advocate for the inclusion of youth quotas in government bodies to ensure that young people are represented in decision-making positions.

4. Sustainable Development: Protecting Our Future
The future of our planet is in your hands, and we are committed to supporting your efforts to create a sustainable Namibia. We will:

Promote Green Technologies:

• Support youth-led initiatives in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, providing funding and resources to those who are working towards a greener Namibia.

Environmental Education:

• Integrate environmental stewardship into educational curricula, fostering a generation that is informed and passionate about protecting our natural resources.

Youth-Led Conservation Projects:

• Fund community-based conservation projects that are designed and led by young Namibians, ensuring that your ideas for preserving our environment are implemented.

5. Social Justice and Equality: A Fair Namibia for All
Every Namibian deserves a life of dignity, free from discrimination and inequality. We will:

Champion Gender Equality:

• Support initiatives that empower young women, ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership roles.

Combat Poverty and Inequality:

• Implement social programs that target the root causes of poverty, including unemployment, lack of education, and social exclusion, with a focus on the youth.

Health and Well-being:

• Ensure access to quality healthcare for all young Namibians, including mental health services, sexual and reproductive health education, and addiction support.

Conclusion
This manifesto is a call to action for every young Namibian. The future is yours to shape, and together, we will build a Namibia that is prosperous, equitable, and sustainable. We are committed to walking this path with you, providing the support and resources you need to turn your dreams into reality. The time for change is now, and it begins with you. Let’s shape the future together.

How does Facebook compare to other social media sites in Namibia?

 Facebook is the most popular social media platform in Namibia, significantly outpacing its competitors in terms of user engagement and reach. Here’s how Facebook compares to other platforms:

Popularity and User Base

• Facebook: As of early 2023, there were approximately 78,000 Facebook users in Namibia, representing about 22.4% of the total population and 32.9% of the eligible audience aged 13 and above. Despite a slight decline in ad reach, Facebook remains the leading platform for social media interaction among Namibians.
• Instagram: The platform has around 230,000 users in Namibia, showing growth in advertising audience but still far behind Facebook. 
• Twitter: With only about 46,000 users, Twitter has a much smaller audience compared to Facebook and Instagram, making it less influential in the Namibian social media landscape.
• LinkedIn: This platform has about 200,000 users, primarily targeting professionals, but it does not match the general engagement levels seen on Facebook.

Engagement and Content

• Engagement Levels: Facebook users in Namibia show relatively low engagement, with many users liking only a few pages and posts per month. The average user likes about one page in their lifetime and interacts minimally with content, indicating that while the platform is popular, active engagement can be limited.
• Content Variety: Facebook supports a wide range of content types, including news, community updates, and advertisements, making it a versatile platform for both users and marketers. In contrast, other platforms like Instagram and Twitter tend to focus more on visual content and concise messaging, respectively.

Market Influence

• Advertising Reach: Facebook has a significant advertising audience, but its effectiveness is questioned due to low engagement rates. In contrast, platforms like Instagram are experiencing growth in their advertising audience, suggesting a shift in marketing strategies among businesses.
• Political Engagement: Political parties in Namibia have struggled to build a substantial following on social media, particularly on Facebook, where even major parties have low engagement levels compared to their historical significance in Namibian politics.

Overall, while Facebook remains the dominant social media platform in Namibia, its effectiveness as a marketing tool is challenged by low user engagement and competition from emerging platforms like Instagram.

What is a Basic Income Grant (BIG)? and what happened in Namibia?

A Basic Income Grant (BIG) is a form of social security in which all citizens or residents of a country regularly receive an unconditional sum of money from the government, regardless of their income, resources or employment status. The main goals of a BIG are to provide a basic standard of living for all citizens and to alleviate poverty and income inequality[1][2].

Pros of a Basic Income Grant

Alleviating poverty and income inequality

A BIG would provide a steady income to all citizens, which would significantly reduce poverty and income inequality. The regular payments would help ensure that everyone can meet their basic needs[1][2].

Improving health and wellbeing

By reducing poverty and providing financial security, a BIG would have positive impacts on physical and mental health. It would reduce stress and allow people to better afford healthcare, food, housing and other necessities[2][4].

Reducing administrative costs

Compared to traditional welfare programs, a BIG would be simpler and cheaper to administer since there would be no means-testing or eligibility requirements to verify[2][3].

Providing a safety net for the vulnerable

A BIG would provide a reliable source of income for those in vulnerable situations, such as victims of domestic violence, people with disabilities, and those unable to work[4].

Encouraging entrepreneurship

By providing a basic income, a BIG would give people more freedom to take risks, start businesses, pursue education, or engage in unpaid care work without fear of falling into poverty[4][5].

Cons of a Basic Income Grant

High cost

Providing a meaningful basic income to an entire population would be extremely expensive for governments. The costs could potentially be prohibitive, especially for developing countries[1][2].

Potential disincentive to work

Some argue that a BIG could reduce the motivation to work, although studies have shown only modest reductions in employment, if any[2][4].

Fairness concerns

Providing the same payment to everyone regardless of need raises questions of fairness. Some argue the money could be better targeted to those most in need[3][4].

Inflation risk

If a BIG is not implemented carefully, it could potentially lead to inflation as people have more money to spend[4].

Sustainability

Ensuring a BIG program remains fiscally sustainable over the long-term would be challenging, especially if it is not funded through reliable revenue sources[3].

Conclusion of what is BIG

In conclusion, a Basic Income Grant is a bold policy proposal with the potential to significantly reduce poverty and improve wellbeing, but it also faces major challenges around cost, implementation, and potential unintended consequences. More evidence from ongoing pilots will help shed light on its feasibility and impacts.

Measuring the Impact of Namibia's Basic Income Grant (BIG) Pilot

Namibia conducted a two-year pilot of a Basic Income Grant (BIG) from 2007-2009 in the Otjivero-Omitara region. The pilot provided a monthly unconditional cash transfer of NAD100 (about $13) to all residents under 60 years old. Researchers conducted a thorough evaluation of the pilot's impacts using several methods:

Baseline and Panel Surveys

- A baseline survey was conducted in November 2007 before the BIG started. 

- Panel surveys were conducted in July and November 2008 to track changes over time.

Key Informant Interviews

- Researchers gathered information from key informants in the Otjivero-Omitara area.

Case Studies  

- Detailed case studies were done on individuals living in Otjivero-Omitara.

The evaluation found very positive results from the BIG pilot:

• Household poverty rates fell from 76% before the BIG to 37% after one year. For households not affected by in-migration, the poverty rate dropped to just 16%[3].
• Child malnutrition rates declined from 42% in November 2007 to 17% in June 2008 and 10% in November 2008[3].
• School attendance increased by 90% as more parents could afford to send their children to school. Dropout rates fell from 40% in 2007 to 5% in 2009[3].
• Crime rates fell by 42% overall, with stock theft down 43% and other theft down nearly 20%[3].

The thorough evaluation approach, combining baseline data, panel surveys, key informant interviews, and case studies, provided robust evidence of the BIG's significant positive impacts in reducing poverty, malnutrition, school dropouts, and crime in the pilot region. However, the pilot did not lead to a nationwide rollout of the BIG in Namibia.

Citations:

[1] https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/basic-income.asp

[2] https://www.employment-studies.co.uk/news/universal-basic-income-pros-cons-and-evidence

[3] https://www.bon.com.na/CMSTemplates/Bon/Files/bon.com.na/56/56018376-a730-4fc6-920d-0d3c3116cce6.pdf

[4] https://www.procon.org/headlines/universal-basic-income-top-3-pros-and-cons/

[5] https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2021/02/universal-basic-income-pros-cons

[6] https://irr.org.za/media/basic-income-grant-weighing-up-the-pros-and-cons-biznews

[7] https://college.unc.edu/2021/03/universal-basic-income/

[8] http://base.socioeco.org/docs/big_resource_book.pdf

Milton Louw's Political Manifesto for a Prosperous and Just Namibia

Vision for Namibia

My vision is to establish Namibia as a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable nation where every citizen enjoys economic empowerment, social justice, and access to critical services and opportunities. This vision is grounded in the principles of cooperative economics, digital inclusivity, and participatory governance, all aimed at fostering national development and social cohesion.

Purpose

This manifesto outlines the work programme for myself, as Executive President, and my team (Executive Cabinet) of ministers, ten chosen with practical business experience, and a further five chosen from elected parliamentarians.

Core Values

The Executive Cabinet of Namibia shall prioritise government employees by motivating them to excel at their tasks, empowering them with financial and political support, monitoring implementation and providing continuous feedback to Namibia's citizens.

Economic Empowerment through Cooperative Models

The foundation of my economic policy will be the promotion and establishment of cooperatives across various sectors. Cooperatives offer a robust model for economic empowerment, allowing individuals to pool resources, share profits equitably, and collectively manage businesses that serve their communities.

Key initiatives include:

• Expansion of Savings and Credit Cooperatives: Building on the framework laid out in the establishment of the Namibian Savings and Credit Cooperative, we will expand access to affordable financial services. This will enable Namibians to save, invest, and borrow at fair rates, reducing reliance on high-interest lenders and promoting financial independence​​.
• Support for Agricultural and Worker Cooperatives: We will promote agricultural cooperatives to enhance food security and ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their products. Additionally, worker cooperatives will be supported in industries such as manufacturing and services, providing employment and ownership opportunities to Namibians.
• Development of Housing Cooperatives: Housing cooperatives will be encouraged to address the shortage of affordable housing. These cooperatives will allow members to collectively own and manage housing, ensuring secure and affordable living conditions.

Digital Inclusivity and Innovation

In the modern world, digital access is crucial for economic development, education, and social inclusion. We will strive to make Namibia a leader in digital innovation in Africa, ensuring that all Namibians, regardless of location or income level, have access to the internet and digital tools.

Key initiatives include:

• Expansion of ICT Infrastructure: We will accelerate the expansion of ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to ensure every Namibian has access to high-speed internet. This will include the establishment of Community Information Resource Centers (CIRCs) in partnership with libraries, schools, and community centers​.
• Promotion of ICT Literacy: To bridge the digital divide, we will implement nationwide ICT literacy programs, equipping Namibians with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. These programs will target all age groups, from school children to adults seeking to upskill.
• Support for E-Government and Digital Services: We will expand e-government services to improve access to public services and increase government transparency. This will include the digitization of government records and the creation of online portals for accessing services.

Social Justice and Equality

Social justice is at the heart of our vision for Namibia. Every Namibian deserves to live with dignity, free from discrimination and with equal access to opportunities.

Key initiatives include:

• Gender Equality: We will enforce and enhance policies that promote gender equality in all spheres of life, including political representation, economic participation, and access to education. This includes ensuring that women are represented in all decision-making bodies and cooperatives​.
• Youth Empowerment: The youth are the future of Namibia. We will invest in education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programs tailored for young people, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to build successful futures.
• Health and Well-being: We will strengthen Namibia's healthcare system to ensure that all citizens have access to quality healthcare. This will involve increasing healthcare funding, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and training more healthcare professionals.

Environmental Sustainability

Sustainable development is essential to ensure that future generations inherit a healthy environment. We will prioritize environmental protection and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Key initiatives include:

• Renewable Energy: We will invest in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind to reduce Namibia's carbon footprint and provide affordable energy to all citizens.
• Sustainable Agriculture: We will promote sustainable farming practices that conserve water, protect soil health, and enhance biodiversity. This will ensure food security and protect the environment for future generations.
• Conservation Efforts: We will continue to support the conservation of Namibia's unique wildlife and natural landscapes, recognizing their value to both the environment and the economy.

Participatory Governance and Transparency

A strong, democratic Namibia requires active citizen participation and a transparent government. We will ensure that the government remains accountable to the people and that citizens have a voice in decision-making processes.

Key initiatives include:

• Decentralization of Power: We will further decentralize government functions to empower local governments, enabling them to better serve their communities. This will also encourage local participation in governance.
• Anti-Corruption Measures: We will strengthen anti-corruption laws and ensure that they are enforced without fear or favor. Transparency in government procurement and financial management will be prioritized.
• Civic Engagement: We will foster a culture of civic engagement by promoting voter education, encouraging public consultations on major policies, and ensuring that all Namibians understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens.

Conclusion

This manifesto outlines a bold vision for Namibia’s future—one where economic empowerment, digital inclusivity, social justice, environmental sustainability, and participatory governance are the pillars of our nation’s development. Together, we can build a Namibia that is prosperous, just, and inclusive for all its people.

Let us work together to make this vision a reality.

Working at Investment Promotion Service (IPS) in Paris 1993-1995

 In 1994, I was offered the job as the Namibian Delegate to the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation’s Investment Promotion Service in Paris, France. The Delegate of each country represented is responsible for: 

• investment promotion campaigns;
• project development;
• preparation of feasibility studies;
• management of programme budgets; and
• joint-venture project development.

During this period, I had an opportunity to study and learn about the investment strategies of amongst others, Mauritius, China, India, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Algeria, Madagascar, Vietnam and Chile. Most of my colleagues were highly educated economists and were attached by their governments from planning or trade and industry ministries. Their experience and willingness to share were invaluable to me coming from a newly liberated country, and me personally having no qualifications in this field! They encouraged me to study Namibia's history and specifically the business strategies of the previous administrations. It was during this period, that I had an opportunity to meet many of the business leaders from the Namibian fishing, agriculture and mining sectors and benefit from their knowledge and experience.

The most important lesson I learnt was that Namibia is competing in the international arena and we would not be given special treatment for very long.

Meeting Michael Jackson

 I bought my first M-net decoder in 1992 when my first born Mikaila was about a year old. The live broadcast was a Michael Jackson show from Romania.

The aerial was not quite right so we would lose the signal and her mother would say, "Michael, Michael" while snapping her fingers until the picture would focus.

Mikaila started copying her and whenever she wanted to watch tv (naturally a Michael Jackson movie) she would try and snap her fingers and say something that sounded like ""Michael, Michael".

As Daddy's do - I promised to take her to meet Michael Jacskon.

A few years later I was the MD for Hazy Investments and part of the World Economic Forum held in Windhoek. As the first Secretary of the EPZ Committee and knowing Barden International, I was part of the inviting committee - for Michael Jackson.

The best part was that he would not attend unless he got the Presidential Suite - and guess who had booked that for his own guest - ME.

So I convinced my boss to change rooms and we had unparalleled access to the Michael Jackson entourage.

When asked where they can have dinner - I suggested our family favourite, 'Oportuga" owned by family friends. 

Daddy kept his promise.

First Posted: May 1998

Privacy Laws: Who Really Benefits?

Privacy laws are supposed to protect our personal information, but in reality, they often end up helping the rich more than the poor. This is especially true in countries like Namibia, where these laws can unintentionally create barriers that make it harder for poorer people to access opportunities for growth and development.

Privacy in Namibia

In Namibia, the Constitution protects your physical privacy, but protecting your personal data, like your name or address, needs specific laws. These include the Data Protection Act, Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations, and the Freedom of Access to Information Act. While these laws are important, they mostly benefit people who already have access to the internet and digital services. For those who are less fortunate, these laws can actually make life harder.

Information Access and Development

Being able to access information is key to development. Public places like libraries and telecentres provide access to information and technology for communities that don’t have it. But strict privacy laws can limit these centres’ ability to collect data that could help them improve their services. For example, if these centres could gather more detailed information about the people who use them, they could tailor their services to better meet community needs. However, privacy regulations often prevent this, making it harder to improve these services.

The Rich vs. The Poor

For wealthy people, privacy laws act as a shield, keeping their personal and business information safe. They have the money to protect their privacy, often using legal methods that the poor can’t afford. This creates an imbalance where the rich can live in a secure environment, while the poor remain vulnerable and are often excluded from services that require personal information.

The Costs of Privacy Laws

Setting up and enforcing privacy laws requires a lot of resources, which can be tough for developing countries like Namibia. For the poor, who might not even have basic access to technology, these laws don’t offer much benefit. Instead, they often add extra costs and complications that make it even harder for disadvantaged people to access services and opportunities.

Financial Barriers

Access to financial services is crucial for lifting people out of poverty. Credit bureaux, which collect and share credit information, are essential for helping people get loans. However, privacy laws can make it harder to set up these systems. In Namibia, many people who have never used banking services aren’t recorded in credit databases. This makes it difficult for banks to assess risk, leading to higher fees and interest rates for the poor, which keeps them stuck in poverty.

Finding a Balance

To make sure privacy laws don’t hurt development, it’s important to find a balance. Laws should protect people’s rights without blocking the benefits that come from using data. Namibia could create flexible privacy laws that allow responsible use of data in public services and financial systems, ensuring that everyone, not just the wealthy, can benefit from these protections.

Conclusion

Privacy laws are important for protecting personal information, but they must be designed in a way that doesn’t limit development opportunities for the poor. In Namibia, striking this balance is crucial. By making sure privacy laws are inclusive and don’t create additional barriers for the disadvantaged, the country can create an environment where both development and privacy are prioritized, benefiting everyone.

Milton Louw's stance on abortion

 Milton Louw's writings do not extensively cover the topic of abortion, but given his emphasis on social justice, national development, and sustainable growth, a campaign stance on abortion would likely focus on balanced, compassionate approaches that respect individual rights and promote public health.

A possible approach for the campaign could be:

1. Healthcare Access and Education:

   - Enhance comprehensive sexual education programs to reduce unwanted pregnancies.

   - Improve access to healthcare services, including contraception and family planning resources.

2. Support Systems:

   - Strengthen support for pregnant women, including prenatal care, financial assistance, and counseling services.

   - Provide robust support for adoption services as an alternative to abortion.

3. Legal Framework:

   - Engage in national dialogue to discuss the current legal status of abortion, considering public opinion and ethical perspectives.

   - Ensure that any legislative changes are made transparently and democratically, prioritizing women's health and safety.

4. Public Health Perspective:

   - Emphasize the importance of safe and legal abortion services to protect women's health.

   - Combat unsafe abortion practices through stringent regulations and public awareness campaigns.

This balanced approach aligns with Milton Louw's vision for a progressive and inclusive Namibia, focusing on education, healthcare, and social support to address the complexities of the abortion issue.

Law Society of Namibia - Demand to desist from "unlawful acquisition and dissemination of private and confidential information"

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:

Namibia's Universal Service Fund - better late than never

 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 two years from the date of commencement of this Act (Part 7).

(The other two issues will be dealt with in later blogs)

Universal Service Fund - benefiting the poor

Imagine living in a world without internet. No YouTube videos, no social media, no Netflix, and no way to easily do your homework or research. For many people, this is a reality.

A Universal Service Fund (USF) is like a special pot of money that governments use to make sure everyone, even people in really remote areas, can access the internet. It's like making sure everyone has a chance to use the same cool tools and information. 

How does it work?

• Collecting money: Usually, internet service providers (like your phone company) pay a small amount extra on your bill. This money goes into the USF.
• Funding projects: The government uses this money to pay for things like:
  • Building cell towers in rural areas
  • Providing internet to schools and libraries
  • Offering internet plans at lower prices for people who can't afford it

Why is it important?

• Education: Students can access online resources, do research, and learn new things.
• Jobs: People can find jobs, apply for them, and learn new skills online.
• Healthcare: Doctors can use the internet to access medical information and connect with other doctors.
• Communication: Families and friends can stay connected, no matter where they live.

In short, a Universal Service Fund helps to level the playing field, making sure everyone has a fair chance to benefit from the internet.

Under the Communications Act, a fund is to be established when the Act becomes operation - that is in 2009. It is not clear what prevented the establishment of the fund and the levies, but the monopoly cellular company, MTC, took CRAN to court in 2020  when they lodged a constitutional challenge against Section 23 of the Communications Act, contending that the amendment granting CRAN the authority to impose regulatory levies failed to establish limits on levy amounts, lacked executive oversight, and granted CRAN unchecked discretion. "On 13 March 2024, the Supreme Court delivered its verdict, overturning the previous ruling and affirming the constitutionality of the amended Section 23. The Court underscored the legislature’s efforts to provide detailed guidelines, thereby curbing CRAN’s discretionary powers and ensuring a balanced approach to levy imposition.

In a media statement following the judgment, the Supreme Court praised the amended legislative framework for establishing clear criteria for levy determination and implementing safeguards against arbitrary decision-making by CRAN. The ruling provides stability to CRAN’s funding structure and paves the way for the implementation of the Universal Service Fund, a crucial initiative stalled by the legal dispute."1

I hope that this latest advertisement it means that CRAN is at last starting to do its job as provided for in 2009.

1 COMMUNICATIONS REGULATOR WINS LEGAL BATTLE OVER REGULATORY LEVIES, SORT OF - https://economist.com.na/86739/extra/communications-regulator-emerges-victorious-in-supreme-court-battle-over-regulatory-levies/

What is Artificial Intelligence and how can Namibians use it?

 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: 

1. How can you use existing AI for improving your life; 
2. How is AI used ON (or against) you; and
3. 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. This is but one of many assistants that can enhance personal productivity, learning and overall convenience.

Here are some examples of what conversational AI can do:

• Students can use ChatGPT for homework help, understanding complex subjects, and preparing for exams;
• Employees and business can seek advice on business strategies, marketing, and customer service improvements;
• Individuals can get preliminary health advice and wellness tips (without the knowledge of parents, friends, etc);
• Farmers can ask about best practices, crop management, and sustainable farming techniques.
• In daily life anyone can use ChatGPT for cooking recipes, travel recommendations, and personal finance tips.

How is AI used on, or against, you

AI is used in various ways to improve our lives, interacting with you almost unseen. There are amongst others:

• personal assistants to help manage your schedules, set reminders and even control smart home devices; 
• health monitoring wearable devices to help you manage your help; 
• AI tutors and homework help applications provide explanations; and 
• recommendations services such as advertisements on Google, which movie to watch on Netflix, and suggest friends on Facebook.

 These same service can be used against you without your permission, for example:

• privacy issues when data is misused or not protected;
• tracking of your movements without your knowledge;
• manipulated advertising, (as an example see the graphic below showing my own personal "sunburst" to determine my buying actions)

Creating AI chatbots

"A "created ChatGPT" typically refers to a ChatGPT model that has been set up or deployed for a specific purpose. This could involve customising the model to better suit a particular application or integrating it into a specific environment, like a customer service chatbot, a personal assistant, or a tool for educational purposes. It means leveraging the capabilities of ChatGPT to generate human-like text based on the input it receives." source: ChatGPT 4.0

In Namibia, AI can be used in various sectors such as education for personalised learning, healthcare for disease diagnosis, agriculture for precision farming, and business for customer service automation. By integrating AI, Namibians can improve efficiency and access to services across these sectors.

As an example of a personalised GPT, I have uploaded all information about myself such as personal details, my work history since 1990, my personal writings and poems created by my early twenties, my newspaper columns in The Namibian and New Era, my personal blog as well as my book, Future Namibia. 
 

This customised ChatGPT allows people to interact with me - in other words my history, writings and almost any other question that an answer can be found for in the uploaded files or anywhere on the Internet.

Some of the questions asked of my bot:

• What are Milton's economic policies?
• How can we engage more young voters in Namibian elections?
• Tackling unemployment in Namibia
• Does Milton propose Public Private Partnerships?
• Write a biography of Milton in  less than 120 characters

Try it yourself. Here is the link to my ChatGpt bot: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-c5tyqslsF-ask-milton-louw-2029. 

Remember to reload the ChatGPT app if you have registered for the first time, and then click on the link.

Conclusion

In Namibia, AI can be used in various sectors such as education for personalized learning, healthcare for disease diagnosis, agriculture for precision farming, and business for customer service automation. By integrating AI, Namibians can improve efficiency and access to services across these sectors. 

And of course, we need the curiosity of our people to try new ways of using this technology!

Using prisoners for forced labour as per the Namibian Constitution

 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

1. No persons shall be held in slavery or servitude.
2. No persons shall be required to perform forced labour.
3. 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 of a person who has conscientious objections to service as a member of a defence force, any labour which that person is required by law to perform in place of such service; 
• d. Any labour required during any period when Namibia is at war or in the event of any emergency or calamity which threatens the life and well-being of the community, to the extent that the requiring of such labour is reasonably justifiable in the circumstances of any situation arising or existing during that period for the purpose of dealing with that situation; 
• e. Any labour reasonably required as part of reasonable and normal communal or other civic obligations.

Based on these provisions, prisoners may be required to perform labour as part of their sentence or detention, provided it falls within the conditions outlined above and is not considered forced labour in the unconstitutional sense.

This approach aligns with international standards, which allow for certain exceptions to the prohibition of forced labour, particularly in the context of lawful imprisonment. It is important that any labour required of prisoners is conducted under humane conditions and does not constitute exploitation or abuse.