Windhoek: The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has renewed the contract of its Chief Executive Officer, Emilia Nghikembua, for a second five-year term, citing strong leadership and performance.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the renewed contract will be valid from 01 January 2026 to 31 December 2030, following Nghikembua’s first term which began in January 2020. CRAN board chairperson, Tulimevava Mufeti, emphasized that the renewal reflects the board’s confidence in Nghikembua’s strategic vision, leadership capabilities, and commitment to advancing the country’s communications sector.

The statement from CRAN highlighted that the renewal follows the leadership and performance demonstrated by Nghikembua during her first term in office. Since her appointment as CEO, Nghikembua has spearheaded reforms that have advanced Namibia’s telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. Mufeti noted that her approach has promoted growth, competition, and improved consumer services.

Nghikembua, an admitted legal practitioner of the High Court of Namibia, holds qualifications in law, ICT policy, and business leadership, including postgraduate degrees from the University of Namibia and the University of the Witwatersrand. Her leadership has earned her recognition across the continent, ranking among Africa’s top economic leaders by Institut Choiseul between 2022 and 2024, and being named Young African Leader of the Year by African Leadership Magazine in 2024.

The CRAN board expressed its anticipation for continued collaboration with Nghikembua to advance the authority’s mandate and position Namibia as a leading digital hub on the continent.