STAFF WRITER
Telecom Namibia and the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) have entered into a strategic partnership for a project to install infrastructure in underserved areas including Kavango East, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshikoto, Zambezi, and //Kharas.
The agreement signals they commencement of Phase 2 of the Universal Service Fund (USF) project.
The initiative is critical to bridge the digital divide in Namibia’s underserved rural areas, the two entities said.
The agreement followed a successful bidding process in which Telecom Namibia was awarded a subsidy of N$9 million for the deployment of vital telecommunications infrastructure across key sites, ensuring that remote communities gain access to reliable and high-quality communication services.
Telecom Namibia, Chief executive Officer Stanley Shanapinda said the agreement represents a significant step forward in our mission to connect all Namibians.
“By investing these funds into robust infrastructure, we are not just building towers; we are creating a digital lifeline for rural communities. This project will empower local businesses and ensure that no Namibian is left behind in the digital age,” he said.
Under the terms of the signed agreement, Telecom Namibia will facilitate the construction of new Radio Access Network (RAN) sites.
The sites are engineered to significantly improve mobile broadband and voice services.
A central component of this partnership is the commitment to provide free connectivity to all educational and health facilities within the coverage of these RAN sites for a period of seven years, directly supporting socioeconomic development.
CRANchief executive officer, Emilia Nghikembua said the Universal Service Fund is a cornerstone of our strategy to ensure inclusive communication services. “Through a transparent and rigorous selection process, we have partnered with Telecom Namibia to accelerate our 2024–2027 digital infrastructure goals. We are confident that this phase will have a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those in the most remote regions of our country,”she said.
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