Staff Writer
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is looking at establishing two to three pilot sites to test Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, with the final number dependent on available options and costs.
The pilot areas will include land under commercial and communal agricultural production, as well as a community project, as CRAN explores ways to address telecommunications challenges in underserved and unserved areas.
The proposed pilot project was discussed during a meeting between CRAN and Namibia’s four farmers’ unions on 28 August, where stakeholders in the agricultural sector provided input to assist the regulator in identifying areas facing critical connectivity challenges.
The Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU) said it was aware of the significant telecommunications challenges experienced by its members across the country and had engaged with CRAN and telecommunications service providers on the issue over the past 18 months.
CRAN established the Universal Service Fund (USF) in December 2024, with telecommunications service providers contributing to the fund to support the construction of infrastructure and the provision of services.
As part of its mandate to promote universal access to information and communication services, the USF is exploring various approaches to improve connectivity in areas that remain underserved or without access to telecommunications services.
One of the options under consideration is the use of LEO satellite technology, which could provide connectivity to farming communities and other remote locations where conventional telecommunications infrastructure is limited or unavailable.
The NAU said it was hopeful that the pilot project would prove successful and contribute towards connecting the remainder of the country through satellite technology offering affordable rates and reliable service.
