The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) says mobile data usage continues to grow in Namibia.
CRAN has released its Quarterly Statistics Bulletin for July to September 2025, in which it also notes modest revenue increases in the Information Communication Technology sector and shifting trends across broadcasting, cybersecurity and postal services.
CRAN issued a statement, revealing the total number of active SIM cards in the country to have increased by 3% in the third quarter of 2025 - driven mainly by a rise in prepaid subscriptions.
The authority also recorded a 6% increase in mobile broadband usage, while dongle and router-based internet subscriptions grew sharply by 30%, signalling renewed interest in fixed mobile wireless services.
CRAN further states that the proportion of SIM cards used for internet access rose from 61 to 63% , reflecting Namibia's continued shift toward data-driven communication, streaming and social media use.
Meanwhile, fixed-line internet subscriptions declined by 2%, continuing a long-term downward trend.
Mobile usage also showed signs of recovery, with outgoing mobile call minutes increasing by 8%, marking the 2nd consecutive quarter of growth.
SMS traffic rose slightly by 1% , indicating early signs of stabilisation.
CRAN further reports that mobile data consumption increased significantly, largely driven by Paratus Telecommunications Limited following the launch of its new LTE network and data packages in August.
Revenue in the ICT sector grew by 1%, while operating costs declined slightly, improving the sector's cost balance.
Investments in telecommunications also rose, supported by ongoing network expansion projects by MTC, Telecom Namibia and Paratus.
In the cybersecurity sector, the statement reveals cyber-threat incidents declined by more than 50%, although CRAN cautions that underlying vulnerabilities remain unchanged.
The broadcasting sector recorded a 3.5% increase in pay-TV subscriptions, with DSTV gaining subscribers, while GoTV experienced a decline, likely due to competition from online streaming platforms.
Postal services remained stable, with postbox utilisation at 48%, while 83% of post offices continue to operate in rural areas, ensuring access to communication and parcel services in underserved communities.