Challenges Of Geospatial Technology On National Security In The 21st Century: The Case Of The Namibian Defence Force.

Abstract

In the 21st century, geospatial technologies have evolved and dramatically converged and necessitated the security for human and state existence. Therefore, application of geospatial technology in the Namibian Defence Force is one of the greatest means of fighting threats to state security in this contemporary world. The study assessed the Challenges of Geospatial Technology on National Security in the 21st Century, with reference to the Namibian Defence Force. The study is informed and shaped by human security theory and securitisation theory as theoretical framework. The study employed the inductive approach which is the qualitative research methodology. The purposive sampling technique was used to select participants. Data was collected through structured interviews. Twenty-five (25) MoD/NDF Officers from the rank of Captain and above working at DDI, DJops and DICT participated in this research. The study revealed that currently there are no laws and policy that regulate owning and use of geospatial technologies in Namibia. The findings also indicated that challenges of geospatial technologies include the lack of integration of database, inadequate funding, lack of trained personnel on interpretations of imageries as well as lack of dedicated security satellites and drones. The findings revealed that the current geospatial technologies within the Namibian Defence Forces are not owned by state security sector but private companies and individuals. Hence, this led to questionable security status of the country. The study recommended that the Namibian government should design policy and laws that will guide the use of geospatial technology. It is also recommended that security personnel should be trained in areas of using recent technological equipments and proficiency in reading, describing data from satellites to ensure detection of any security threats. The study further recommended the government to avail funds to acquire geospatial technologies for intelligence gathering dedicated to security purposes as well the Ministry of Defence to incorporate related courses in all Military Institutions curriculums.