By: Robert Kwaku Annor
The Effective Communicators
Conference 2026 (ECC26) has officially opened in Swakopmund, bringing together
government communicators, media professionals, public relations practitioners
and communication experts from across Africa to explore the role of communication
in driving development and strengthening public trust.
The conference, which opened
on 16 July at The Dome in Swakopmund, is being held under the theme, “Communication
Reconsidered: A Driving Force for Constant Progress.”
Delivering the official
opening address, Namibia’s Vice President, Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, said
effective communication is fundamental to building trust between governments
and citizens. She urged communicators to provide accurate and timely information,
combat misinformation and embrace emerging technologies responsibly to improve
public understanding of government programmes and services.
The Vice President also
encouraged participants to use the conference as a platform to develop
practical solutions that will strengthen communication practices and enhance
public engagement.
In the keynote address,
Botswana’s Vice President, His Honour Ndaba Gaolathe, called on Africans to
tell their own stories with confidence, honesty and pride. He said strategic
communication plays a vital role in fostering trust, promoting unity and showcasing
the continent’s achievements, opportunities and aspirations to the global
community.
The opening ceremony also
featured remarks from the Governor of the Erongo Region, Namibia’s Minister of
Information and Communication Technology, international development partners
and industry leaders, who underscored the importance of collaboration in
advancing strategic communication across Africa.
Organisers said the
conference will provide a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing and
professional development as participants examine how communication can support
effective governance, public trust and sustainable development across the
continent.
