Telecom Namibia has officially escalated its next-gen connectivity ambitions, stating that all newly deployed mobile base stations are fully 5G‑enabled. The announcement comes hot on the heels of a strategic visit by the Ministry of ICT delegation led by Dr. Audrin Mathe, signalling deepening government–telco coordination to fast-track digital inclusion.
Under this rollout, upgraded base stations are being delivered alongside expanded fibre‑to‑the‑X (FTTX) backhaul and a modernised OSS/BSS core. Telecom Namibia CEO Dr. Stanley Shanapinda reaffirmed the operator’s push for improved rural coverage and enhanced enterprise services as part of its investment roadmap.
Government Targets 100% Digital Coverage by 2030
In a concurrent move, the Namibian government unveiled an ambitious goal: achieving 100% telecom coverage, both mobile and fixed, by 2030. Backed by an $8 million Universal Service Fund, the initiative prioritizes underserved regions like Karas, Kavango West, Omaheke, and Kunene.
Recent figures reveal that as of February 2024, ~12% of Namibians lacked 4G access, with over 330 schools and 50 rural health centres offline. The enhanced rollout of 5G‑ready infrastructure is expected to accelerate progress.
Surge in Data Revenue and Market Momentum
Data continues to dominate the telco landscape with Q3 2024 data revenue surpassing N$800 million, accounting for nearly 70% of total mobile operator income. This financial boom is enabling continued infrastructure investment, against a backdrop of increasing digital demand.
Competitive Landscape: MTC, TN Mobile, Paratus
While MTC maintains leadership, having completed its LTE‑first network upgrades, it has yet to launch commercial 5G. Conversely, Telecom Namibia’s decision to future‑proof base stations gives it an edge in timing.
Privately owned Paratus retains a strong position in enterprise fibre and data‑centre services, though it trails in mobile. Analysts note its Armada data‑centre pedigree as a strong foundation for future wholesale or B2B 5G initiatives.
Regulatory Momentum & Market Liberalization
CRAN and government agencies hint at structural reforms aimed at increasing competition through possible privatization of NPTH‑controlled operators, spectrum reallocation, and eased barriers for new entrants. Data shows MTC and TN still dominate ≈90% of the market.
The Road Ahead
-
Telecom Namibia will continue rolling out 5G‑ready sites while expanding its OSS/BSS and FTTX deployments in rural areas.
-
The government’s 2030 universal coverage plan will be underpinned by targeted USF investments in connectivity and devices.
-
MTC is poised to move from LTE dominance to 5G commercialization, with significant subscriber and ARPU upside.
-
Paratus remains well‑placed to scale enterprise 5G and fibre services once regulatory conditions stabilize.
Stay tuned to Danmari Nexus for the latest developments in this fast‑evolving telecom landscape.
