Namibia cannot speak seriously about economic diversification while leaving the creative industry on the margins of its development agenda.
The recent mid-term budget review presented an opportunity for the government to reaffirm its commitment to developing this sector, particularly through progress on the promised creative industry framework.
That opportunity appears to have been missed.
We recognise the difficult circumstances confronting the country.
The effects of El Niño continue to place pressure on livelihoods, while foot-and-mouth disease threatens livestock farming and the communities that depend on it.
These are serious challenges that require urgent government attention and resources.
However, responding to immediate crises should not mean neglecting sectors that could help Namibia build a more resilient and diversified economy.
The creative industry is not a luxury to be considered only when the country has resolved every other problem.
It is an economic sector with the potential to create employment, generate income and open opportunities for young people.
Music, film, fashion, visual arts, crafts, publishing, performing arts and digital content creation can all contribute to economic growth when supported by an enabling policy environment.
Government previously committed to developing a framework for the creative industry.
The question is therefore not whether the sector deserves attention, but where the process stands and what concrete steps are being taken to fulfil that commitment.
The mid-term budget review did not necessarily have to provide a substantial financial allocation to the sector at this stage.
However, it should have offered a clear direction.
A statement from the responsible minister outlining the next steps towards a policy framework, a strategic plan, stakeholder consultations and a defined implementation process would have been meaningful.
Such a commitment would have given artists, performers, producers and content creators something tangible to work towards.
Namibia must also recognise that economic diversification cannot depend indefinitely on traditional sectors such as agriculture and livestock farming.
While these remain important pillars of the economy, the country needs additional sources of income that can withstand different economic pressures.
A properly supported creative industry could provide alternative livelihoods, particularly for young Namibians seeking to turn their talents and ideas into sustainable businesses.
Content creation alone has created opportunities for people to build audiences, market products and earn income beyond conventional employment.
With the right framework, training, access to markets and appropriate support systems, these opportunities could expand considerably.
Government must therefore move beyond acknowledging the creative industry in speeches and commitments.
Artists and other industry players need a clear roadmap, defined responsibilities and measurable progress.
Namibia cannot diversify its economy by overlooking the creativity of its own people.
The promised framework must move forward, and the creative industry deserves a clear place in the country’s development agenda.
