MTC’s 5G network now covers 17 towns and locations across Namibia after the telecommunications operator connected Grootfontein, Mariental, Okahandja, Otjiwarongo and Tsumeb under the second phase of its rollout.
The five additions expand MTC’s 5G footprint from the 12 locations covered during its initial commercial rollout in 2025, which included Windhoek, Hosea Kutako, Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, Oshakati, Ondangwa, Ongwediva, Rundu, Keetmanshoop, Lüderitz, Oranjemund and Karibib.
The expansion forms part of MTC’s broader network investment programme aimed at increasing capacity and responding to growing demand for mobile data services.
Under the second phase, MTC is also rolling out 19 new network sites across nine regions, comprising eight in Erongo, four in Kavango West, and one each in //Kharas, Kavango East, Khomas, Kunene, Ohangwena, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa.
The company said the rollout has also strengthened its existing 5G presence in Windhoek and Walvis Bay.
MTC General Manager for Networks Ludwig Heinrich Tjitandi said the company was investing in 5G alongside upgrades to its broader mobile network.
“Our network investment is ultimately about ensuring that Namibians have access to reliable, high-quality connectivity as demand continues to grow. While expanding our 5G footprint is an important part of that journey, we are equally focused on strengthening our existing network, expanding coverage and modernising our infrastructure,” Tjitandi said.
MTC’s 5G journey began with its first public trial in 2024 in partnership with Huawei, during which speeds of approximately 1.4 gigabits per second (Gbps) were achieved.
Commercial deployment followed in 2025 with 40 sites across the initial 12 locations.
Beyond 5G, MTC has carried out 4G/LTE capacity upgrades at 20 sites during 2026 to accommodate increased network traffic and improve performance.
The operator has also replaced end-of-life equipment at 25 sites as part of its network modernisation programme.
MTC is separately expanding connectivity in underserved areas after securing N$32.3 million under Phase 2 of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia’s Universal Service Fund.
The funding will support nine network solutions comprising 10 towers across //Kharas, Kavango West, Kunene, Ohangwena and Oshikoto.
A further eight existing towers are being replaced, mainly in Erongo, as well as in Khomas, Omusati and Zambezi, to address deteriorating infrastructure and improve network coverage.
