In Keetmanshoop, a last-minute surge has seen scores of residents line up at the MTC office, eager to register their SIM cards.

The scene underscores a sense of urgency, with some locals reporting waits of over three hours in long queues.

SIM card holders have until December 31st to register their numbers or face suspension.

Long queues can be observed as people rush at the last minute, although the message was transmitted 12 months ago.

Not only are SIM card holders rushing at the last minute, but some banks have only started sending messages to their clients urging them to register their numbers to avoid service interruptions.