Leading with integrity: Inside Toivo Ndjebela’s newsroom

Meet Toivo Ndjebela, editor-in-chief of Namibian Sun and newly elected chairperson of the Editors Forum of Namibia (EFN).His story began in a small village, where he taught himself English by listening to the radio and poring over old newspapers, dictionary in hand.What began as a quiet determination to master a language evolved into a lifelong commitment to keeping Namibians informed.Today, he heads one of the country’s most influential newsrooms, still anchored by the values that shaped his early years: humility, discipline and a strong belief in the power of truth.When asked to reflect on his early years and the values that have shaped him, Ndjebela said: “I would say humility and groundedness. Plus discipline, which I consider the best asset I have had all my life.”That same sense of principle continues to shape his decisions, even when they come with personal difficulty.“One of the things I grapple with is publishing news involving people I am close to, even relatives. But when it comes to accountability, there can be no exceptions,” he explained. Editorial integrityNdjebela acknowledged that the pressure of leading a newsroom has only intensified in recent years, especially with the rise of social media and rapidly shifting audience behaviour. “Just when you think you have locked in an audience, their preferences change. It is a constant challenge,” he noted. Still, he insists that the core mandate of journalism remains unchanged.“Stories must be told as they are. As long as they are relevant, factual and in the public interest,” Ndjebela emphasised. He also pointed out that good reporting requires strong context, not just facts. For Ndjebela, one value remains paramount: “The most important value a newsroom can uphold in Namibia today is integrity.”At the helm of EFNIn his new role as chair of the Editors’ Forum of Namibia (EFN), Ndjebela says he hopes to strengthen greater unity within the media industry and help rebuild public trust.High on his agenda is ensuring that the country’s media code of ethics applies to all journalists, not just those affiliated with the forum.“Currently only EFN members can be summoned by the media ombudsman. This must be corrected,” he insisted.Reflecting on his own leadership approach, Ndjebela credited much of his growth to his former editor at New Era, Rajah Munamava. “He was firm, fair, fearless and empathetic. I try to live by those values every day,” he shared. Through mentorship, Ndjebela encourages young journalists to stay bold and honest, even as the media world changes. “Evolve with the times, but do not lose the basic values of the trade,” he advised.Firmly committed to the craft Although many of his friends have urged him to enter the political arena, Ndjebela remains devoted to journalism. “I fear politics with every grain of my being,” he laughed. “Journalism has done more good for Namibia than politics has.”He believes his reporting has played a role in exposing wrongdoing, amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that matter. “I believe some of my work prevented tragedies, stopped theft of public resources and summoned the conscience of society,” Ndjebela concluded. As for legacy, he is modest. “I want to be remembered as a man who tried his best, but was never devoid of flaws."

Leading with integrity: Inside Toivo Ndjebela’s newsroom

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Republikein 2025-11-03

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Leading with integrity: Inside Toivo Ndjebela’s newsroom

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