Digital Capacity Building for Namibia’s MSMEs

In Namibia’s pursuit of progress, business development through digitization has emerged as the critical path to prosperity. Initiated by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) and carried out with the support by BCS Digital Skills Academy (BCS) from Estonia, this project is dedicated to reshaping the nation’s economic and digital landscape. The overarching goal of the project is to craft primary project plans designed to enhance the digital capabilities of Namibian MSMEs over a 3–5-year horizon.

The project’s goal: 

NIPDB’s Digital Capacity and Skills Development Strategy for MSMEs will be developed as an integral part of national digital development strategies. The strategy defines and prioritizes activities and support measures that NIPDB should develop and implement for MSMEs digital development.  Thus, the strategy contributes to and complements the existing strategies and those under development.

The project has three core stages:

1. Digital Skills Kickstart: In this initial phase, we offer a Digital Masterclass, where experiences and examples from Estonia and the world are introduced. Discussion with Namibian experts will allow to define Namibia’s and NIPDB needs and priorities in the field of MSME digital development.
2. Strategic Roadmap: Next, in discussions with experts, we define the priority areas for development and design primary master plan of the MSM’s digital capabilities development, defining critical success factors and agreeing on priority activities and their project plans.
3. Hands-On Training: In the final stage, we develop a tailored program and run an on-site pilot training to enhance critical digital skills in one specific area.

Beneficiaries

The project’s impact is broad reaching, benefiting Namibian companies, their employees, and the nation itself. NIPDB, as the project’s driving force, relies on this plan for strategic direction and donor engagement.

This project embodies Namibia’s commitment to harnessing digital tools for prosperity, offering a clear pathway to a digitally empowered future.

This project is funded by  ESTDEV – Estonian Centre for International Development.