Niël Terblanché
PowerCom held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new telecommunications tower in Mupini village in the Kavango West region on Thursday.
Emma Theofelus, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, who inaugurated the tower, explained the project’s significance for the region and the nation.
“This tower represents far more than just the construction of a physical structure; it is a giant leap forward in Namibia’s digital journey, opening up a world of opportunity for the people of Rundu and the Kavango Region,” she said.
Theofelus stressed the ministry’s commitment to transforming Namibia into a digitally inclusive nation. Initiatives such as the “Smart Namibia” strategy and the “Access for All” program aim to enhance service delivery, drive economic growth, and ensure that all citizens can participate in the digital age.
These programs focus on expanding broadband connectivity, especially in underserved rural areas like Kavango West.
She said the potential benefits include improved access to real-time market information for farmers, enhanced educational resources for students, and advanced healthcare services through reliable internet connections.
Theofelus also acknowledged the collaborative spirit that made this project possible, involving the Government of the Republic of Namibia, PowerCom, and the local community.
“This partnership is crucial as we strive to build a truly connected Namibia, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age,” she said.
According to the minister, the groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of construction in Mupini and Tondoro, Rundu Extention 3, and Kangongo, further expanding connectivity in the region.
She reiterated that the government is committed to developing the Kavango West region and ensuring advanced internet access nationwide, as highlighted by the recent launch of 5G technology.
PowerCom’s CEO, Beatus Amadhila, said the company’s dedication to improving Namibia’s telecommunications infrastructure.
He said that the construction of new towers in Mupini, Kangongo, and Tondoro is part of a broader strategy to expand telecommunication infrastructure across the country.
“These towers are not isolated projects; they are part of a comprehensive plan to ensure equitable access for all citizens,” Amadhila said.
PowerCom has been actively working to improve connectivity nationwide.
In June 2022, they commissioned a new network tower in Okahandja, significantly improving telecommunications services.
Similar projects in Windhoek’s Goreangab area and four other regions underscore PowerCom’s ongoing efforts to reduce the digital divide and promote connectivity.
Amadhila said that the new tower in Mupini will strengthen Namibia’s national telecommunication backbone, contributing significantly to the national development goals outlined in the Harambee Prosperity Plan.
He added that with the aid of the new infrastructure, PowerCom aims to enhance innovation and entrepreneurship, driving economic growth and creating a more prosperous future for the region.
“We intend to be a leading force in transforming Namibia’s digital landscape, connecting communities, and empowering individuals,” Amadhila said.
He said the initiative is a demonstration of the transformative power of partnership and the shared vision of a digitally inclusive Namibia.