Namibia bolsters digital access with 25 new network towers

Twenty-five PowerCom network towers were inaugurated last week across nine regions, including one at Oikokola in the Etayi constituency in the Omusati region.Speaking at the Oikokola site, which was chosen as the symbolic launch venue to represent all 25 towers, communication technology minister Emma Theofelus said infrastructure is key to driving Namibia’s digital transformation and improving access to services in underserved communities.She said the towers will expand mobile and internet connectivity in rural areas, in line with Vision 2030 and the National Development Plan 6 (NDP6), which prioritise youth empowerment, digital innovation and inclusive growth.Namibia aims to raise internet penetration from just over 50% to 90% of the population by 2030, while digital technology access is projected to grow from 28% to 70%.The minister added that government is targeting 100% digitisation of services by 2029/30, supported by secure data systems and a national digital ID.“These are not just figures on paper. They are targets backed by deliberate action, and they are achievable through projects such as the one we are launching today," Theofelus said."We know too well the challenges our rural areas face, but connectivity has the power to change this story,” she added.Modern currencyShe emphasised that connectivity is “the currency of modern development”, highlighting benefits for farmers accessing real-time data and markets, entrepreneurs tapping into e-commerce, patients receiving e-health services, and learners accessing global digital classrooms.The minister underscored that connectivity is no longer a luxury but key to development. The new towers are located in Omusati (Oikokola, Omahenene), Erongo (Mondesa, Kramersdorf), Khomas (Katutura, Rocky Crest, Ludwigsdorf, Daan Viljoen, Eros), Otjozondjupa (Osona Valley, Otavi), Kavango East (Kaisosi, Kangongo), Kavango West (Tondoro, Mupini), Karas (Howobees), Oshana (Ondangwa), Oshikoto (Guinas), and Zambezi (Ikumwe, Nakabolelwa, Mutikitila).Protect assetsTheofelus urged communities to safeguard the infrastructure against vandalism and theft, describing the towers as “a foundation of equity, opportunity and fairness.” She commended PowerCom and Telecom Namibia for their investment, noting that partnerships between government and the private sector are vital to achieving Namibia’s digital future.PowerCom CEO Beatus Amadhila said the projects collectively cost N$40 million, with each tower amounting to N$1.6 million.Amadhila stressed that a tower alone does not change lives, but that it is how it is used that truly matters. He called on service providers to deliver reliable and affordable services and urged communities to protect the infrastructure from vandalism, treating it as their own asset.

Namibia bolsters digital access with 25 new network towers

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-25

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Namibia bolsters digital access with 25 new network towers

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-25

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