The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia proposed new regulatory levy fees for telecommunications licences, broadcasting and postal services.

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) aims to strengthen performance discipline within the organisation by 2030.

This was revealed by CRAN Communications and International Relations Manager Jairus Kapenda during an ICT stakeholders' engagement held at Oshakati.

Members of parliament in the National Council supported the vote for the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, commending the government for installing network towers in key village areas.

Telecom Namibia attributes last week's network disruptions to simultaneous failures in its international connectivity links through South Africa, coupled with ageing local infrastructure.

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has emphasised the need for satellite technology in Namibia due to its wide coverage. 

Currently, most of Namibia's services are running on terrestrial networks with a limited reach.

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has defended the government’s handling of the telecommunications regulator’s decision not to approve a license for the US-owned satellite-based internet service, Starlink.

Minister of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) Emma Theofelus says Starlink's application to operate in Namibia was declined because the company did not meet ownership requirements.

Service providers in the ICT sector are intensifying efforts to expand infrastructure, aiming to bridge the digital divide and enhance connectivity. 

Telecom Namibia has warned that the escalating copper theft is threatening critical telecommunications infrastructure and putting lives at risk, calling for stronger law enforcement and government intervention.

Namibia is poised to deepen its technological partnership with Russia, focusing on digital government systems, cybersecurity, and telecommunications infrastructure. 

This follows discussions on Monday during the 11th session of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Engagement.