Telecom Namibia has activated the Equiano submarine cable, which provides faster and more reliable 5G internet to the country and southern Africa.

As Telecom Namibia marked 32 years of its existence, the state-owned enterprise also celebrated the activation of the Equiano cable and the inauguration of the cable station at Swakopmund.

Telecom co-landed the undersea cable with Paratus in 2022.

The cable, named after Olaudah Equiano, a Nigerian-born writer and slave abolitionist, symbolises the freedom of connection, access, and expression.

"It will not only enhance our ability to connect with the world but also significantly boost our nation's digital economy, opening up new opportunities for innovation, growth, and prosperity. We are committed to continuing our efforts in expanding and enhancing our ICT infrastructure, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of technological advancement and regional connectivity," said Dr. Stanley Shanapinda, Telecom CEO.

In 2012, SADC released its master plan, and part of it aims to develop ICT connections from the SADC region to Africa and the world by 2027.

Works and Transport Minister John Mutorwa says the landing of the cable and the inauguration of the station is Namibia's contribution towards that noble goal. 

The Deputy Premier, who represented President Nangolo Mbumba, said the enhanced connectivity fulfils Namibia's obligations under regional agreements.

"This enhanced connectivity will revolutionise how we conduct business, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and unlock a new wave of economic opportunities across diverse sectors. It serves as a catalyst for regional integration within SADC. Governments and businesses across SADC can leverage the increased bandwidth to deliver improved services to their citizens." 

Apart from the Equiano cable, Telecom and the Botswana government also landed the West Africa Cable System (WACS) in 2012 at Swakopmund.

The two undersea cables provide internet connection diversity for Southern Africa.