Representatives from the Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF) were honoured to attend the official launch of the UNESCO Chair in Digital Technology Design with Indigenous People at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) on 9 July 2025. The Chair, led by Prof. Heike Winschiers-Theophilus, is a groundbreaking initiative in which “Indigenous communities are not only recipients of technology; they are architects of it”. This ethos of “culture meets technology” emphasises co-creation with indigenous communities so that each technological solution is inclusive, ethical, and firmly grounded in cultural identity. NNF congratulates Prof. Winschiers-Theophilus and her team on this milestone, which marks a significant step toward inclusive innovation and cultural preservation in Namibia.

As a key strategic partner in the upcoming Weaving Futures: Indigenous Peoples’ Knowledge Fair (scheduled for 5–18 September 2025 in Namibia), NNF is proud to stand alongside Indigenous leaders, innovators, and researchers who are shaping the future of knowledge-sharing and environmental stewardship. This international fair will gather indigenous communities and stakeholders to share best practices, showcase innovations, and strengthen partnerships in preserving cultural heritage and sustainable development. NNF’s involvement underscores our commitment to elevating indigenous knowledge in national and global dialogues.

NNF is especially excited to contribute through the development of the Namibian Ocean Literacy Toolkit, a vital educational resource made possible by UNESCO through the Namibian Islands’ Marine Protected Area (NIMPA) project, funded by the Blue Action Fund.  Developed by NNF in partnership with the Topnaar community and local educational NGOs, this toolkit is framed by UNESCO’s seven Ocean Literacy Principles and integrates indigenous knowledge into marine education. It will support a deeper understanding of Namibia’s unique marine ecosystems and highlight how the traditional knowledge of the Topnaar community strengthens ocean conservation efforts. The toolkit aims to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards and bridge the gap between scientific and indigenous perspectives on marine stewardship.

The launch of the UNESCO Chair and these collaborative projects signal the beginning of an inspiring journey toward more inclusive, culturally grounded, and digitally connected futures. This initiative is not just a standalone event but part of a broader movement in Namibia to honour indigenous knowledge and ensure communities are equal partners in innovation and conservation.