Namibia is investing approximately $2.3 million to improve telecommunications access in rural communities, as the government works to reduce the long-standing digital gap and push internet usage beyond the 50% mark nationwide.
The funds, equal to about N$42.1 million, have been set aside by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia under the second phase of the Universal Service Fund, an initiative aimed at bringing connectivity to areas that have seen limited private sector involvement.
From the total allocation, around $1.8 million will be directed to Mobile Telecommunications Company Namibia, while Telecom Namibia is set to receive about $540,000 to expand network coverage in remote regions such as Karas, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena, and Oshikoto.
Authorities note that the project is designed to close structural gaps that continue to limit access to digital services in rural areas, despite more reliable broadband availability in urban centres like Windhoek.
According to Telecom Namibia CEO Stanley Shanapinda, the investment forms part of a wider strategy to bring rural populations into the digital economy. “We are not just building towers. We are creating a digital lifeline for rural communities,” he stated.
The rollout plan includes building nine new Radio Access Network tower sites, along with three additional installations by Telecom Namibia. So far, about 39% of the work has been completed, with more intensive construction expected to begin soon.
This initiative supports Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan, which aims to achieve 90% internet penetration by 2030—an objective experts believe will depend heavily on continued public funding due to the high costs of rural infrastructure.
CRAN CEO Emilia Nghikembua explained that the programme addresses market shortcomings, where private sector incentives alone have not been enough to deliver nationwide coverage.
“This intervention is aligned with NDP6 priorities to accelerate universal access to quality and affordable communication services, particularly for rural communities,” she said.
In addition to infrastructure, the project is expected to provide connectivity to at least 15 public institutions, including schools and healthcare centres. Limited internet access has previously hindered digital health services, reduced e-learning opportunities, and kept small businesses in rural areas from participating in online markets.
An important aspect of the plan includes offering up to seven years of free internet access for selected schools and clinics, ensuring that the investment leads to meaningful social impact.
“Connectivity is not a privilege, but a key driver of inclusive development,” Nghikembua emphasised.