The Namibian authorities have identified digital transformation as a crucial pillar to support socio-economic development. However, the country still grapples with a significant digital divide. To address this challenge, the government has set a ambitious goal of achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030. This target is bolstered by an initial investment of $8 million, courtesy of the Universal Service Fund (USF), a dedicated mechanism established to ensure that telecommunications services reach all parts of the country. The priority regions for achieving this goal are Karas, Kavango West, Omaheke, and Kunene. These regions have been identified as having the most limited access to telecom services. The government’s strategy to bridge this gap involves strengthening collaboration with public operators like Telecom Namibia. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) has been working closely with Telecom Namibia to identify and implement critical projects that will modernize the operator’s network infrastructure and expand its coverage. Some of the key projects discussed include the implementation of the OSS/BSS management system, the development of fixed-mobile network core, the deployment of fiber to the home (FTTX), and the extension of the radio access network (RAN). These projects are designed to ensure that the network infrastructure is modernized and equipped to meet the growing demands of the population. The Universal Service Fund (USF) was launched in March last year, with an initial endowment of 145 million Namibian dollars ($8 million). This fund is aimed at financing the extension of telecoms services in many undeveloped rural areas. The government’s goal of achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030 is ambitious, but it is clear that the government is committed to making progress. A significant challenge that the government faces is the lack of coverage in rural areas. Official data shows that around 360,000 Namibians, approximately 12% of the population, were not covered by the 4G network as of February 2024. This means that many people in these areas still do not have access to essential services like education and healthcare. The International Telecommunication Union estimates that internet penetration stands at 62.2% in Namibia, while mobile telephony penetration is at 79.6%. This highlights the digital divide that still exists in the country. Despite the progress made, there are still several barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. These include limited access to suitable devices like smartphones, high cost of services, and a lack of digital skills among the population. For example, many schools and health centers in rural areas still do not have adequate connectivity, which can limit the effectiveness of educational and healthcare services. The government has set a goal of achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030, which is an ambitious target. However, the mere availability of a network does not guarantee effective adoption of these services. To achieve this goal, the government needs to address the underlying digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. Key milestones and timelines for the government’s goal of 100% telecoms coverage by 2030 are as follows:

1. Launch of the Universal Service Fund (USF) in March last year
2. Identification and prioritization of regions for telecoms coverage expansion
3. Implementation of critical projects to modernize network infrastructure and expand coverage
4. Achievement of 100% telecoms coverage by 2030

The government’s commitment to achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030 is a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide. However, it will require sustained efforts and investment to overcome the digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. To achieve this goal, the government will need to work closely with public operators like Telecom Namibia, as well as other stakeholders, to identify and address the underlying digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. This will involve investing in infrastructure, improving digital skills, and reducing the cost of services. By working together, the government and private sector can make progress towards achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030.

The expansion of Telecom Namibia’s network infrastructure is a critical step towards achieving 100% telecoms coverage in Namibia. By investing in modernizing the network infrastructure, the government can ensure that the network is equipped to meet the growing demands of the population. This will enable more people to access essential services like education and healthcare. By 2030, every Namibian should be able to connect to the network and access telecom services. However, the mere availability of a network does not guarantee effective adoption of these services. To achieve this goal, the government needs to address the underlying digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. In conclusion, the government’s goal of achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030 is a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide in Namibia. However, it will require sustained efforts and investment to overcome the digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services. By working together with public operators and other stakeholders, the government can make progress towards achieving 100% telecoms coverage by 2030.

The success of this initiative will depend on the ability of the government and private sector to work together to address the digital barriers that prevent people from adopting telecom services.