4G arrives in Epinga
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia have donated more than 130 smartphones to residents of Epinga Village in the Ohangwena Region. The donation took place during the launch of a new 4G network tower at the village.
The devices were funded through the Universal Service Fund under CRAN’s oversight. Mobile Telecommunications Limited contributed to the initiative, along with its managing director.
Connectivity is not enough
The new 4G tower gives Epinga faster and more reliable internet access. The smartphones mean residents can use that connectivity immediately. This combination of infrastructure and devices supports digital inclusion more effectively than network expansion alone. As a result, households that previously struggled with access can now join online services, digital payments and e government tools.
If the model is repeated in other rural communities, it could reduce regional connectivity gaps across Namibia. It also signals a shift in strategy for telecom operators and regulators. They are moving from network build out alone to a more integrated approach that links devices with connectivity.
The first users in line
Residents of Epinga Village benefit first. Rural households across Namibia may see similar support in the future. Telecom companies and regulatory bodies are also affected, since this approach may influence how they plan future Universal Service Fund projects.
The road after the rollout
MTC will integrate the new tower into its wider network operations. SIM cards will be distributed to smartphone recipients. CRAN expects more roll outs under the Universal Service Fund’s rural access programme.
In the coming months, officials will monitor how residents use the devices and the internet connection. They aim to assess adoption levels and measure whether the initiative improves participation in the digital economy.
