Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus has called for the swift implementation of the fifth-generation (5G) mobile network, acknowledging that the global focus has already started to shift towards the deployment of even faster 5.5G and 6G networks.
She emphasised the importance of embracing innovation and urged stakeholders to seize the opportunity to stay ahead in the technological landscape.
Theofelus said the government aims to bridge the digital divide, encompassing various demographics from rural to urban areas, men and women, and children.
“While acknowledging the challenge of ensuring digital literacy for all, the government recognises the imperative to keep pace with technology advancements,” she said.
Drawing on past successes like the leap from landlines to mobile phones, she noted that the government is committed to advancing connectivity and technology access, even as efforts to promote digital literacy continue.
Theofelus made these remarks during Mobile Telecommunications (MTC) Limited’s first 5G trial and technology demonstration in Windhoek, in collaboration with Huawei Technologies.
“Whether in education, health, manufacturing, transportation, communications, or any other sector, the enhanced benefits to be derived from 5G is a game changer, and as indicated earlier, it is now upon us to embrace this technology and derive the best out of it,” she said.
The Minister referenced a report by Oxford Economics, 5G commissioned by Qualcomm Incorporated, which found that 5G integration using mmWave spectrum has the potential to boost global productivity by 1.7% of global GDP in 2030 – equivalent to 10% of global GDP growth in this period.
Meanwhile, at the event. MTC Managing Director Licky Erastus highlighted that the company is not yet prepared for the commercial rollout of 5G plans.
He emphasised that 5G brings about reduced data rates, decreased latency, energy efficiency, cost savings, and significant system advancements.
“I draw your kind attention to note that 5G is a fundamental platform for the 4IR because it is not just another G on the path of mobile technology evolution. 5G combines greater data transfer speeds and heightened processing power to enable the Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity on a massive scale. It will have a significant impact on every aspect of our digital lives,” Erastus said.
He added that in the upcoming months, MTC will be deploying their field service consultants to various industries to promote 5G and, hopefully, onboard them with service offerings aimed at enhancing connectivity solutions for enterprises across different sectors.
Huawei Technologies Managing Director Michael Zhang highlighted that 5G has a much lower latency, which makes it possible for all kinds of remote operations, for instance, remote driving and medical operations.
“5G also offers vast connections, in a more professional word, massive machine-type communication, and massive internet of things. Imagine not only your cell phones are connected, 5G will be able to connect all devices that you can think of at the same time, your car, fridge, lights, all different sensors, even your water meters,” he said.
He said 5G will fundamentally change the way people live, work, and communicate. It will enable a wide range of applications that will drive economic growth, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of life for the people of Namibia.
“At Huawei, we are committed, we will work closely with MTC to deploy cutting-edge technologies to ensure fast and high-quality 5G deployments and also to innovate together to bring more 5G services to our people, communities, companies and industries. We believe 5G will be a significant driver and enabler to our social and digital life and economy,” he said.
