Namibia: Incumbent operator under pressure due to repeated network outages
May 28th 2026
Telecom Namibia has launched a program to modernize and expand its network. However, on the ground, the quality of service continues to deteriorate.
In Namibia, the state-owned operator Telecom Namibia is under scrutiny from the telecommunications regulator. The company is primarily criticized for recent and repeated disruptions to its network, which have affected the quality of internet services in several regions of the country.
According to local media, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has requested that Telecom Namibia provide detailed explanations regarding the root causes of the disruptions, the measures currently being implemented, and the actions planned to prevent further incidents. It has also expressed concerns about Telecom Namibia’s ability to meet its licensing obligations and minimum service quality standards in the context of persistent network instability.
“The Authority will also assess the overall viability of Telecom Namibia’s business model in light of persistent network instability and compliance with other license conditions. This assessment will focus on the operator’s ability to meet its obligations and maintain service and quality standards ,” said Emilia Nghikembua, the institution’s director general, as quoted by The Brief.
The company stated that the disruptions are due to a combination of network infrastructure issues and system malfunctions affecting both its fixed broadband and mobile networks. It affirms its commitment to restoring service reliability and regaining customer trust through measurable improvements and greater transparency.
She also stated that she is accelerating several measures, including network stabilization and optimization, infrastructure modernization, improved monitoring systems, and enhanced communication with customers. She had, in fact, warned a few days earlier that these interventions could lead to further temporary disruptions.
In this context, Telecom Namibia is liable, in accordance with Namibian law, to sanctions or penalties from the telecommunications regulator. The company could also lose customers to its competitor, which claims a 91% market share.
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