Auleria Wakudumo
ONGWEDIVA – The Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) has officially launched 5G in Namibia, becoming the first network operator to introduce the next generation technology in the country.
While unveiling the service at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair, MTC moved to allay public concerns by assuring that 5G is safe and scientifically tested, addressing speculation and rumours surrounding the technology.
MTC’s chief technical and information officer Monica Nehemia stated that the company remains committed to leading Namibia’s digital transformation through the provision of reliable and up-to-date network technology that facilitates access to information, critical services and communication, thereby bridging the digital divide.
“The power and seamlessness of 5G will open doors to new opportunities in industries such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, smart agriculture, payments and telemedicine, enhancing efficiency and fostering innovation. The introduction of the technology is a historic milestone in Namibia’s digital journey,” she noted. Currently, 5G is live in Ongwediva, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Windhoek, with plans for an aggressive rollout across the country in the coming months.
Even though MTC has already taken to its social media platforms to share information, the operator said it remains important for Namibians to familiarise themselves with 5G as it rolls out nationwide.
The fifth generation of wireless communications is designed to be smarter, faster and more efficient than 4G.
It can deliver mobile data speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, with peak speeds reaching 100 gigabits per second.
MTC said 5G brings a host of advantages, including 1 millisecond latency, allowing near-instant responses. It has the capacity to support up to 100 times more devices at once; 10-year battery life for sensors, making them more reliable and 90% less energy consumption, making it environmentally friendly.
Additionally, it has 1 000 times more capacity, enabling more people and machines to connect simultaneously.
Nehemia added that the possibilities with 5G are endless – from immersive gaming and smart irrigation to telemedicine and smart warehousing – which will accelerate innovation and support national development goals.
The launch follows a successful 5G trial by MTC in February 2024, reinforcing the company’s vision of becoming Namibia’s leading purpose-driven technology provider by 2030.
Is 5G safe?
To address speculation and public concerns, MTC said that 5G, like 4G and earlier mobile networks, uses radio waves, which are a form of non-ionising that does not harm humans.
The International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), a scientific body recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), provides global safety standards.
The ICNIRP stipulates that 5G does not pose any health risks when operated within approved guidelines.
MTC said its commitment goes beyond rolling out the technology.
The company will continue to educate the nation about 5G to ensure that Namibians not only adopt but also understand the opportunities the technology brings for innovation, connectivity and the digital economy.