Delegates attending the Effective Communicators Conference 2026 have been urged to place truth, ethics and public trust at the centre of their work as communication professionals grapple with the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
Addressing the opening session on Thursday (16 July), national and regional leaders said effective communication remains critical to good governance, citizen participation and sustainable development.
Officially opening the conference, said communicators have become increasingly important in an era shaped by rapid digital evolution, where misinformation and disinformation continue to threaten public confidence. “As communicators, you are tasked with a serious responsibility to ensure that facts, truth and clarity prevail over misinformation and disinformation. You must be champions of truth and agents of change,” she said. Witbooi said communication is no longer merely a function within organisations or government institutions but has become the backbone of trust, nation-building and good governance. She said government communicators have a responsibility to ensure policies are not only implemented but also understood and appreciated by the public. She added that effective communication is essential for the successful implementation of Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), saying it bridges the gap between government policy and citizen participation. “The future of the communications profession now depends on trust, ethical leadership, innovation and regional cooperation,” she said, urging delegates to produce practical recommendations that will strengthen communication structures and credibility.
Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus said today’s citizens are increasingly seeking communicators they can trust. “People are continually seeking to be included, informed and, above all, they are looking for communicators they can trust,” she said. She described communicators as the bridge between those who have information and those who need it, saying they play a vital role in building trust in institutions, promoting social cohesion and creating an environment where government and the private sector can work together for economic development.
Theofelus encouraged delegates to embrace dialogue instead of assumptions, saying meaningful deliberations are essential to finding solutions and strengthening public participation. Welcoming delegates to the Erongo Region, Governor Dr Nathalia /Goagoses said the conference theme, “Communication Reconsidered: A Driving Force for Constant Progress”, highlights the importance of communication beyond simply sharing information. “It builds trust, strengthens institutions, promotes accountability and inspires collective action,” she said. She said Erongo continues to make progress in expanding access to essential services, improving food security and creating opportunities through developments in green hydrogen, renewable energy, mining technology, logistics and tourism.
“Our strategic coastal location makes us Namibia’s gateway for digital connectivity, international trade and logistics,” she said, adding that innovation is helping transform service delivery while creating employment opportunities for young people. She encouraged delegates to use the conference to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and develop innovative approaches that will improve communication across institutions and the continent. Botswana Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe said communication remains fundamental to building trust, creating understanding and ensuring communities are heard. He said meaningful dialogue, transparency and collaboration between African countries are essential for sustainable development and innovation, adding that no nation can achieve lasting progress in isolation.
The conference, which coincides with World Public Relations Day, has attracted communication professionals, government representatives and industry leaders from Namibia and across Africa to discuss ethical communication, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and strategies to strengthen public trust. Organisers hope the discussions will produce practical recommendations to strengthen communication practices across the region while promoting transparency, accountability and inclusive development.
By Sharlien Tjambari
