Namibia: A first tower financed by the Universal Rural Fund
November 20th 2025
Namibia has taken an important step in its strategy to reduce the digital divide with the launch of the first actions of its Universal Service Fund (USF).
Namibian authorities announced on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the inauguration of the first telecommunications tower financed by the Universal Service Fund (USF). Located in Epinga, in the rural region of Ohangwena, this infrastructure is intended to provide 4G voice and data services to communities that have long remained outside commercial coverage areas.
In practical terms, the new installation will improve connectivity for remote villages and public institutions, including a primary school and a clinic. The government believes that access to 4G will facilitate digital education, access to telemedicine, and the increasing use of online administrative services.
“ The government has committed 145 million Namibian dollars [approximately $8.4 million] to the expanded USF program to accelerate the deployment of digital infrastructure across the country ,” the Namibian telecommunications regulator stated. It added, “Under this program, nine additional 4G towers will connect an additional 4,765 Namibians, while 16 schools and four clinics will benefit from seven years of free 4G service .”
The initiative addresses a broader objective set by the Ministry of ICT: to achieve universal connectivity, at least for basic services, in traditionally underserved areas. Authorities have already identified several additional areas, particularly in the Kunene and Kavango regions, where more USF towers could be installed in the medium term.
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