Hertta-Maria Amutenja
MTC has extended its fibre transmission network to 2 738 km to strengthen its backbone infrastructure to meet increasing demand for fixed internet services and reduce dependency risks.
The expansion, which covers Windhoek and coastal areas, is part of MTC’s strategy to enhance digital connectivity for businesses and households.
The company aims to provide reliable and high-speed internet services, supporting Namibia’s digital transformation and economic growth.
MTC’s chief brand, marketing, communications, and sustainability officer, Tim Ekandjo, explained the importance of robust infrastructure in maintaining the company’s market leadership.
“The ability to continue meeting the market’s demands requires that we maintain, expand, and optimise our network infrastructure. This allows for a seamless delivery of services to our customers. We thus continue to make inroads with our strategy to diversify into, for instance, enterprise ICT markets, including IoT and fixed connectivity such as fibre, to achieve our strategic growth and facilitate an inclusive digital economy,” he said.
Ekandjo added that investing in infrastructure is essential for MTC’s long-term sustainability.
“Last year alone, we deployed 1 377 km of fibre, bringing our fibre transmission network to cover 2 738 km. This deployment will continue in 2025—a demonstration of our deliberate intent to move towards our long-term vision and strategy of driving an inclusive digital economy,” he said.
MTC’s fibre expansion comes at a time when the company is navigating regulatory challenges related to its infrastructure agreements.
In December 2024, MTC requested a dispute adjudication from the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) regarding a 2012 tripartite dark fibre agreement with NamPower and Telecom.
CRAN had earlier ruled that certain sections of the agreement were void, raising concerns that MTC might face higher leasing rates should the decision stand.
MTC’s concern is that if CRAN’s decision is not reversed, the company could face increased operational expenses.
According to MTC’s 2024 Integrated Annual Report, the financial impact of this change remains undetermined but is expected to be significant.
MTC remains the leading mobile telecom operator in Namibia with 2.224 million active subscribers.
Over the last five years, the company has invested nearly N$1 billion in its 081Every1 campaign, which has brought connectivity to 98.11% of the population.
The campaign has been a key factor in MTC’s strategy to expand its network, particularly in rural areas where LTE services have been deployed.
