MTC switched on its 1000th network tower at Okadhiya, Okatyali Constituency in the Oshana Region on Tuesday as part of the 081Every1 project launched in 2017.
The project has a budget cost estimate of N$1.2 billion, with the purpose of providing 100% network coverage in the whole country upon completion and increase MTC’s voice and data coverage footprint to reach more Namibians.
The project further brings sources of electricity closer to rural areas by setting up network towers in areas that previously had no power supply.
“Since its launch, 268 sites in total have been commissioned and 24 sites are under construction. Of the 248 sites constructed, 221 are rural sites, while 47 are urban sites. In the Oshana Region, the project has constructed 14 rural and eight urban sites. In total, the region has 22 rural and 42 urban sites,” the telco said.
At the launch, ICT Minister Dr Peya Mushelenga said the investment by MTC will make the villages around the new network tower attractive to investors, while bridging the information divide in rural areas.
“The 081Every1 project is a national capital project driven to connect every citizen on the country’s national network grid from 2G to 3G migration in rural areas, and 3G to 4G in towns. This is an investment the Ministry will always support in fostering a digitally enabled economy,” he said.
Speaking at the same event, MTC Managing Director Dr Licky Erastus said despite the installed tower being located in a rural area, it is 3G and 4G enabled.
“Under the 081Every1 project, our sites have been upgraded from 2G to 3G and 4G, respectively. And this is chiefly because we aim to unlock Namibians to digitalisation. We want our people, regardless of where they are, to be digitally enabled and have access to e-services. I must submit that very soon MTC will be setting in motion the rollout of 5G technology so that we will upscale and ready this nation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Erastus.
He added that the project serves as a cornerstone of the company’s entrusted mandate of providing inclusive and quality connectivity.
“Commissioning a network tower is always fulfilling, as they intentionally lead and drive to bridge the digital gap in society. As MTC, we strongly believe that in order for us to ensure sheer inclusivity and equal economic participation from all citizens, the extension of our network footprints to all corners of the country is essential,” he said.
