WINDHOEK — The Parliament of Namibia has embraced a digital transformation with the handover of four digitally enhanced rooms by the Turkish Cooperation Agency (TIKA) on Tuesday, marking a progressive shift toward an e-Parliament framework.

According to the Namibia Press Agency (Nampa), Prof Peter Katjavivi, the ceremony signifies a crucial step in modernizing the Parliament’s functions. He emphasized that the initiative is focused on developing a digitally enabled environment conducive to the Parliament’s essential duties including law-making, oversight, and representation. The investment by TIKA is seen as a leap forward in creating a dynamic and interconnected parliamentary system.

The renovated rooms — named the Pink room, Blue room, the Chambers, and the Speaker’s boardroom — have been outfitted with advanced technology. Katjavivi articulated that these spaces are envisioned as portals to foster new avenues for dialogue, decision-making, and diplomatic engagement.

Highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Katjavivi acknowledged the accelerated shift towards digital tools, which has further highlighted the importance of adapting to future challenges. He praised the digital upgrades as a reflection of the Parliament’s adaptability and commitment to sustaining legislative operations amidst adversity.

During the event, TIKA’s Namibia Office Coordinator, Aydin Apaydin, celebrated the digitisation project as a notable accomplishment within the Namibian National Assembly. He outlined that the introduction of state-of-the-art technology through the project is set to make the Assembly’s processes more efficient, improving communication and cooperation capabilities.

Apaydin also conveyed his gratitude towards Cekerek Oruckaptan, the Ambassador of Turkey to Namibia, for her unwavering support in the agency’s efforts to not only digitize the National Assembly but to also lay the foundation for a more transparent and accessible e-Parliament.