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The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) strongly upholds the principles of media freedom as enshrined in the Namibian Constitution. It is our view that a free and independent media is essential to Namibia’s democratic values and a key component of our country’s attractiveness as an investment destination.
In that regard, the NIPDB is keenly aware of its obligation as a public institution, to engage with the media in a manner that is transparent and consistent with the Government’s mission to ensure an effective flow of accurate and timely information between the Government and the public. On the other hand, in its role as the Fourth Estate entrusted with informing and educating the public on important national issues, the media is obliged to report accurately, objectively and without distorting the facts. The media has tremendous influence and directly shapes public sentiment about individual, organisation and nation brands. Therefore, it is critical that media freedom is upheld in parallel with ethical and unbiased reporting.
Since its establishment, the NIPDB has maintained open, transparent, and ethical communication with the media regarding its mandate and operations. We regard the media as a key stakeholder in promoting and amplifying Namibia’s value proposition as an investment destination, and informing the public about available opportunities through our various projects, particularly for local investors and MSMEs.
The recent insinuations about the NIPDB’s alleged violation of media freedom and interference in the internal affairs of Network Media Hub (NMH) are therefore illogical and devoid of any truth. These claims, which lack any factual basis, threaten to undermine the integrity of public discourse and the fundamental role of the media in our society.
To set the record straight:
The NIPDB believes in constructive engagement with the media, even in cases where coverage is critical of our work in the execution of our mandate. As a public entity, we welcome scrutiny and recognise the media’s role in holding public institutions accountable. However, accountability is a two-way principle. Journalists also bear the professional responsibility to report accurately, fairly, and without bias.
The NIPDB had no role in the revocation of Ms. Jemima Beukes’ accreditation for the Global Africa Hydrogen Summit hosted in Windhoek last year. The decision was taken by NMH without any request, directive, or interference from the NIPDB. We were informed by NMH to cancel the accreditation of Ms Beukes, after the decision had been made, in line with what we assume are their internal protocols.
Therefore, claims that NIPDB influenced NMH’s decision to revoke Ms. Beukes’ accreditation remains unsubstantiated, as no evidence has been presented to support the allegations.
All our engagements with Ms. Beukes have been purely professional. Prior to the publication of her most recent article published on 06 February 2025 – on NIPDB’s internal affairs, we sought to understand the core issues of interest in order to clarify factual inaccuracies. This engagement was conducted transparently, and followed up with written responses to her questions within the agreed timeframe. Despite these engagements, Ms Beukes proceeded to publish the article with the inaccurate information that had already been pointed out to her.
We are deeply concerned about the misrepresentation of facts and the intentional spread of misinformation that tarnishes reputations and misleads the public.
The NIPDB remains focused on its mandate; to facilitate investment, promote inclusive economic growth as a catalyst for job creation and sustainable prosperity for all Namibians. We will continue working with all our stakeholders, including the media, to ensure transparent, fact-based communication that strengthens Namibia’s position as an attractive investment destination.
Issued by:
Catherine Shipushu
Senior Manager: Marketing, Branding and Communications
Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board
Telephone: +264 83 333 8636
Email: catherine.shipushu@nipdb.com
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