BY FREDRICK BUCHANE
The Communication Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) says the country has made reasonable progress in guarding against cyber threats.
The progress according to CRAN chief executive officer Emilia Nghikembua is partly due to the launch of the Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team (NAM-CSIRT) earlier this year.
“The response team laid the groundwork for national cyber resilience, including strategic partnerships with AfricaCERT, international task forces, and national capacity-building initiatives,” Ngikembua told the Namibia Business Review this month.
Ngikembua said while progress has been made in different aspects of improving information and communication technology , CRAN continues to focus on creating a vibrant, competitive communications landscape that supports Namibia’s socio- economic development and positions the country as a digital leader in the region.
According to Nghikembua, Namibia has also progressed after launching the Universal Service Fund (USF) in March. This has resulted in phase one achieving implementation of 4G site construction and institutional connectivity in four under-converted regions.
Nghikembua said Phase II of the programme has also commenced across eight additional regions, reinforcing the commitment to bridging the rural digital divide.
“On the spectrum management front, CRAN successfully completed major assignments supporting 5G deployment, rural broadband expansion, and key infrastructure projects such as the smart ports in Walvis Bay and Lüderitz,” she said. Nghikembua said these efforts have contributed to 4G population coverage increasing to 91%, with notable gains in remote regions such as Kunene and Omaheke regions.
“Namibia’s global digital standing has also improved, with the ICT Development Index score rising to 73.2% in 2025, a 6% increase since 2023, positioning the country among the top six in SADC and surpassing several regional peers,” she said.
Nghikembua said CRAN has strengthened digital trust by finalising Electronic Signature Regulations and securing funding to operationalise Namibia’s PKI Certification Authority.
“We have achieved an average strategy execution rate of 82.5% over the past two years, underscoring a performance-driven culture. Looking ahead, CRAN aims to further increase broadband penetration, facilitate the deployment of 5G technology, and promote innovation within the sector,” she said.
The CRAN CEO said achieving 100% radio reach remains vital for Namibia to ensure inclusive access to information, enhance national cohesion, and support development initiatives across all communities.
It promotes informed decision-making, education, and emergency communication, especially in remote and underserved areas.
“CRAN aims to facilitate infrastructure expansion, incentivise community radio stations, and upgrade transmission networks. Short-term measures include optimising existing frequencies, leveraging digital radio technologies, and promoting partnerships with local broadcasters,” said Nghikembua
These efforts, according to Nghikembua together with subsidies provided by relevant stakeholders will enhance CRAN’s efforts to expand and sustain community radio services across Namibia. This, she said, will further accelerate coverage, bridge communication gaps, and reinforce Namibia’s commitment to universal access to vital information.
Nghikembua said the ICT sector in Namibia has exhibited steady growth, driven by increased mobile penetration, expanding broadband infrastructure, and government initiatives promoting digital transformation.
“Compared to neighbouring countries such as Botswana and South Africa, Namibia’s growth remains moderate but promising, with notable advancements in e-government services and ICT accessibility,” she said.
Nghikembua said challenges persist, including limited rural connectivity, digital literacy gaps, adoption and the usage of the internet.
“About 58% of Namibians use the Internet. However, ongoing investments and regulatory reforms by CRAN are fostering a more competitive and inclusive ICT environment.
Overall, Namibia’s ICT sector shows significant potential for future growth, positioning the country as a regional player in digital development,” said.
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