Rauna Kalola 

The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) hosted a stakeholder consultation in Erongo region, spotlighting the region’s central role as Namibia’s ICT connectivity hub. 

The session brought together regional leaders and key ICT stakeholders to discuss network coverage, digital literacy, access to information and broadcasting infrastructure. 

Erongo’s coastal geography makes it uniquely suited to serve as the country’s digital entry point. 

ICT minister Emma Theofelus noted that the region is home to two critical undersea links: “The older West Africa cable and the newer Equiano cable that landed near Swakopmund in 2022. These cables form the backbone of Namibia’s international connectivity, enabling highspeed data services and access to global networks.” 

Theofelus further noted that infrastructure and interconnectivity are foundational to all ambitions —from providing tablets for schoolchildren to ensuring phones and broadcast services reach every corner of the country. 

She acknowledged the logistical and financial hurdles of expanding network coverage — constructing a single tower can cost around N$2–3 million depending on height, power requirements, and terrain. While the rolling out of infrastructure remains costly — especially in remote settlements where solar power is needed and regulatory compliance is complex — the minister affirmed that the long-term benefits justify the investments. 

“It is a lot of money, but the potential of what technology can do for our people is much greater,” said Theofelus. 

The engagement also deliberated on other persistent operational challenges affecting telecommunications operators and, in the process, affecting service delivery to the people. These include delays in land approvals, land ownership disputes, vandalism and cable theft, as well as difficulties in accessing infrastructure sites. 

The minister also emphasised the government’s determination to continue investing and highlighted a new infrastructure-sharing policy to avoid redundant deployments by operators like  Telecom Namibia and MTC. 

She also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to inclusive services, noting that 26 rural ICT centres are in operation to bridge gaps in digital access. 

Stakeholders responded with interest, particularly regarding improved network access across rural and urban communities of the region. 

*Rauna Kalola is an information officer at MICT Erongo.