Namibia regulator cautions journalists on leaked data

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has issued a warning to local journalists against publishing stories based on leaked data following cyberattacks, labeling such practices unethical and potentially criminal. Emilia Nghikembua, CRAN’s chief executive, delivered the alert during the launch of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa Financial Journalism Training (BMIA-FJT) Programme, which seeks to raise financial reporting standards across Africa.

Nghikembua highlighted risks associated with journalists accessing dark web platforms to examine leaked financial or personal data after cyber incidents. She argued that such actions exploit crime rather than addressing its underlying causes. The emphasis on ethical journalism extends to handling sensitive digital material, where strict professional standards must be upheld.

The BMIA-FJT Programme officially launched on September 22, marking Namibia as the 10th African country to participate, joining earlier adopters like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. The first group of participants consists of 60 delegates chosen from 800 applicants, drawn from media organizations, banks, regulatory agencies, and government departments.

Key collaborators include Bloomberg Philanthropies, the International University of Management, Namibia University of Science and Technology, and Strathmore Business School. The seven-month curriculum addresses economics, financial markets, data analysis, climate reporting, and ethical journalism—with the latter receiving particular focus.

Nghikembua noted that financial journalism must simplify complex economic issues for public understanding, shaping policy, investment decisions, and national development.

Delegates gain academic and practical exposure through industry practitioners, Bloomberg journalists, peer-to-peer learning, and resources such as the Bloomberg Terminal.

Bloomberg’s partnership with Namibian institutions reflects a broader effort to strengthen financial journalism across the continent. The program’s structure ensures delegates gain both technical expertise and ethical grounding, equipping them to report responsibly on economic matters.

The first cohort’s selection process reflects high demand, with applicants representing diverse sectors eager to enhance their financial journalism capabilities.