Information and Knowledge Policy Framework to Enhance the Effectiveness of Namibia’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP4)

Abstract

The capability of Namibia’s residents, institutions and communities to effectively seek, access, evaluate, create and use knowledge and information to innovate is absolutely necessary for achieving the goals of the fourth National Development plan (NDP4). The paper aims to analyse, study and evaluate the extent to which the Fourth Namibia National Development Plan (NDPs) provides for and integrates access to information and knowledge strategies as its normative and implementation components. Using other national policies and legislation on information and knowledge in place, the study outlines information and knowledge gaps identified and indicates concisely how the NDP4 could have been enhanced by inclusion of substantial information and knowledge strategies for its effective implementation as well as smooth achievement of Namibia Vision 2030. The paper recommends the establishment of a comprehensive and sustainable set of policy and strategic instruments with clear guidelines to enhance the contribution of access to information and knowledge to the achievement of the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP4).