My Career

THE Namibian’s Ndama Nakasole talked to Festus Mbandeka about his appointment as the new CEO of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran).

What does your job entail?

As a chief executive officer I will provide visionary strategic leadership and direct the organisation and therefore achieve the operational objectives of the authority to ensure the efficient and effective implementation of the Communications Act as well as other relevant legislation, national policies and regulations.

How long have you had this job?

I joined CRAN on 7 September.

Tell us briefly about your academic qualifications and where you studied?

I am an admitted legal practitioner of the High Court of Namibia since 1997. The following are my academic qualifications:

• BA degree in Political Science (Honours Programme) and Sociology graduate from Concordia College, USA 1992

• LLB degree, University of Natal, Durban, 1995

• Certificate in Contract Negotiations and Investment (International Development Law Institute Rome, Italy)

• Pending Thesis for an LLM (University of Namibia)

What kind of books and materials do you read?

I enjoy reading books with themes such as leadership and politics and I read for inspiration, educational and academic reasons and, most importantly, for building my level of knowledge and equally I also read for relaxation. I am currently reading ‘The Leader Who Had no Title’, written by Robin Sharma.

Why are you excited about the communications industry?

I have learnt and gained tremendous insight into this dynamic industry and therefore discovered that this sector is extremely innovative, dynamic and fast moving. It needs forward thinking to benefit the industry, consumers as well as all Namibians even in the most remote areas. Equally, I must mention that Namibia as a country is doing well in terms of attracting investors, that we remain relevant and current when it comes to ICT services and products and that our market and consumers alike are demanding and striving to supply the ICT needs of our ever-flourishing Namibian economy.

What are your hobbies, how do you relax?

I enjoy the great outdoors and the beautiful landscape that our country provides. I am an avid reader of books and also enjoy watching documentaries of different cultures, politics and history. I participate in church and community events and projects.

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