Namibia celebrates launch of first rural network tower in Epinga

25 November 2025

The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) of Namibia has marked an important milestone in rural connectivity with the launch of the country’s first network tower in Epinga village, Ohangwena Region.

This event is part of Namibia’s national initiative to expand digital access and bridge the connectivity gap in underserved rural communities.

As part of the celebration, Minister Emma Theofelus gifted over 130 Oka smartphones to residents of Epinga. The donations were made possible through a collaborative effort involving the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), mobile operator MTC, and MTC Managing Director Dr. Licky Erastus.

CRAN, via the Universal Service Fund, contributed 100 smartphones; MTC donated 20 devices; and Dr. Erastus personally added 10 smartphones. To facilitate immediate connectivity, the initiative also distributed 100 SIM cards to residents, enabling them to start benefiting from improved network services right away.

During her address, Minister Theofelus emphasised that the project’s impact extends beyond infrastructure, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering digital inclusion and empowering communities with essential communication tools. She underscored that access to smartphones and SIM cards will help bridge the digital divide and promote socio-economic development.

The inauguration of the Epinga tower signifies a key step in Namibia’s broader strategy to expand digital infrastructure and ensure that even remote areas are integrated into the country’s technological progress.