WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA – 9 April 2026 – Telecom Namibia and the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) officially entered into a strategic partnership during a formal signing ceremony held at the CRAN Head Office on 9 April 2026. This milestone event marked the commencement of Phase 2 of the Universal Service Fund (USF) project, a critical initiative designed to bridge the digital divide in Namibia’s underserved rural areas.

The agreement followed a successful bidding process in which Telecom Namibia was awarded a subsidy of N$9,796,650. These funds are dedicated to the deployment of vital telecommunications infrastructure across key sites, ensuring that remote communities gain access to reliable and high-quality communication services. Dr. Stanley Shanapinda, CEO of Telecom Namibia, stated: “This 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.”

Under the terms of the signed agreement, Telecom Namibia will facilitate the construction of new Radio Access Network (RAN) sites. These 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.

Mrs. Emilia Nghikembua CEO of CRAN, commented: “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.”

During the ceremony, representatives from both organizations emphasized the importance of this project in aligning with national goals to accelerate digital technology infrastructure across Namibia. By extending coverage to regions where traditional commercial investment has previously been unviable, Telecom Namibia continues to fulfill its mandate of connecting the nation.

The infrastructure deployment will target underserved areas in regions including Kavango East, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshikoto, Zambezi, and //Kharas. This investment is expected to have a lasting positive impact on Namibia’s digital landscape, fostering an inclusive economy for all citizens.

ENDS