In a powerful keynote address at the Standard Bank Anti Financial Crime Conference 2025 in Windhoek, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Hon Emma Theofelus, delivered a clarion call to action against financial crime a persistent threat to Namibia’s development and stability. This landmark conference, endorsed by both the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) and the Ministry of ICT, symbolizes a significant collaboration between government, the financial sector, and technology stakeholders.
Minister Theofelus underscored financial crime not merely as a legal issue but as a core national development challenge that diverts resources from vital public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The illicit activities range from fraud to money laundering and embezzlement, collectively draining millions from Namibia’s economy every year. To illustrate, the FIC froze over N$96.9 million linked to unlawful activities in the past financial year and supported investigations leading to numerous case breakthroughs, while tax authorities collected millions in assessments against financial misconduct.
Addressing these challenges head on, the Minister announced critical legal and technological advances poised to transform Namibia’s fight against financial crime. The forthcoming Data Protection Bill to be tabled in Parliament in September 2025, promises to safeguard citizens’ personal data, bolster public trust in digital platforms, and align the nation with global data protection standards. Complementing this is the impending launch of legally binding electronic signatures in February 2026, which will revolutionize secure digital transactions, reduce forgery, enhance traceability, and support financial inclusion by enabling remote access to formal economic activities.
Further strengthening Namibia’s digital resilience, an AI readiness assessment reinforces the government’s commitment to fostering innovation while protecting citizen rights through robust laws and policies. Minister Theofelus highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive societal approach to combat financial crime, calling for unified efforts by banks, regulators, law enforcement, civil society, and the private sector to cultivate a culture rooted in transparency, accountability and integrity.
The conference itself stands as a testament to this collaborative spirit, designed to forge new partnerships, share innovative solutions, and commit all stakeholders to decisive action. The Minister concluded with an inspiring appeal: financial crime is not victimless it undermines development, justice, and the aspirations of all Namibians. Yet, through concerted and sustained effort, Namibia and Africa as a whole can embrace a future where financial systems are secure, transparent, and inclusive, nurturing sustainable prosperity for generations to come.
