Staff Reporter
THE Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has officially commissioned the Universal Service Fund (USF) tower in Epinga, Ohangwena Region.
CRAN’s Executive for Communication and Consumer Relations, Mufaro Nesongano, described the installation of the tower as a significant achievement in promoting digital inclusion and expanding essential communication services to communities that have long been underserved.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, emphasised that the commissioning of the tower symbolises progress, inclusivity and empowerment, and represents a tangible step towards reducing the digital divide in Namibia.
“This project aligns perfectly with our national priorities. It is a concrete step toward achieving our vision for universal access to Information and Communication Technologies. Bridging the digital divide remains at the core of our development agenda. The Government of the Republic of Namibia recognises that in today’s world, digital connectivity is not a luxury but a necessity and an essential driver of social and economic development,” Theofelus said.
She added that the commissioning of the Epinga tower marks the start of Phase One of the Universal Service Fund rollout.
“Through the Universal Service Fund, nine 4G mobile radio access network towers were approved for construction across the Kavango East, Kavango West, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Kunene Regions. However, other regions are catered for in other programs being operated by the Ministry to expand network connectivity. Once completed, these sites will provide 4G services to an additional 4,765 Namibians who previously had no connectivity. In addition, the programme will deliver free 4G voice and broadband data services for seven years to sixteen schools and four clinics in these areas,” the minister explained.
Theofelus further announced that the Government has already invested N$145 million to advance Phase Two of the USF rollout, aimed at accelerating the expansion of digital technology and infrastructure countrywide. She noted that work has already begun to identify locations for Phase Three.
“Under Phase two, eleven sites have been allocated for new infrastructure development. The bidding process has been completed, and I am pleased to announce that the award of these sites will be made public this Friday, 21 November 2025. Looking ahead, assessments are already underway to identify additional locations for Phase three of the Universal Service Fund rollout. This is why the Ministry of ICT has been visiting regional leaders across the country to properly pinpoint the areas in various regions that require connectivity or strengthened communications,” Theofelus explained.
