A researcher with the Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR), Frederico Links claims, there is no transparency in the biometric data collection, MTC is currently carrying out.

In an interview with nbc News Links says, when registering their sim cards subscribers are taken through a process that includes capturing a picture and fingerprints.

This has raised many eyebrows as the law currently only allows for basic information such as identification copy and residential address. 

Links further says, collecting biometrics can carry consequences such as identity theft. 

Therefore, there is a need for people to understand and carefully consider before such a step is implemented. 

"No explanation given just collection data, the process is forcing customers without providing alternatives."

In an article published by Links, he says the unlawful biometric data collection practices by a telecommunications company are not only a concern in Namibia but across the African continent. 

Since 2021, human rights defenders have been battling the Kenyan regulator and the country's largest mobile operator, Safaricom, over their unlawful collection of subscriber biometric data. 

Last year the Communications Authority of Kenya backtracked in the race of legal challenges from civil society and members of the public. 

Since then, Kenyan telecommunication stopped collecting biometric data and calls have been made to human rights organizations and the Law Society of Kenya to delete the illegal biometric database. 

During a media briefing, MTC's Chief HR and Corporate Affairs Officer Tim Ekandjo said the sole purpose of biometrics collection is to safeguard the user and to put a stop to cybercrime.