IMELDA AMBONDO
MTC and Telecom Namibia (TN) were awarded a combined N$42 million to expand mobile broadband and voice coverage in underserved communities across the country.
The projects are running under Phase 2 of the Universal Service Fund (USF) project.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRA) announced the successful bidders on Thursday saying the project will bring improved connectivity to remote parts of Kavango East, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshikoto, Zambezi and //Karas.
“The successful bidders are Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC), awarded subsidies for eight sites totaling N$32,326,727, and Telecom Namibia Limited (TN), awarded subsidies for three sites totaling N$9,796,650,” said Mufaro Nesongano, CRAN Executive for Communication & Consumer Relations.
The combined allocation for Phase 2 amounts to N$42,123,377.
CRAN said the initiative is central to its commitment to digital inclusion and ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing reliable telecommunications services.
According to Nesongano, the project will “enhance connectivity, bridge the digital divide, and promote socio-economic development in Namibia’s remote and underserved regions.”
Under this phase, the awarded sites will allow for the construction of new Radio Access Network (RAN) sites to improve broadband and voice services. All schools and health facilities covered by these new sites will also receive free connectivity for seven years.
The announcement comes a day after CRAN launched Phase 1 of the USF Tower in Epinga, Ohangwena Region, on 19 November 2025—an achievement the authority says is a major step toward extending essential communication services to rural communities.
CRAN also expressed appreciation to all bidders who participated in the process.
“We thank all participating bidders for their commitment and efforts. The Authority is confident that these investments will have a lasting positive impact on Namibia’s socio-economic landscape,” Nesongano said.
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