Namibian telecommunications company Loc8 has announced plans to launch its 5G network in the first quarter of 2026.
Loc8 is one of three operators awarded 5G licences by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) in October 2023, alongside the Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) and Telecom Namibia.
The licences followed a spectrum auction which generated approximately N$28.5 million.
“We’ll be launching our project in Q1 2026. Right now, we have a commercial component up and running, and we’re excited to share more details. This gives a glimpse of the excitement leading up to the full launch in Q1 2026,” Loc8 Chief Executive Officer, Collin /Uirab said , adding that preparations are already underway.
/ Uirab explained that the company’s rollout strategy is designed to serve both urban and industrial needs, with a focus on enabling Internet of Things (IoT) applications in sectors such as mining.
He added that Loc8 has invested heavily in network resilience by securing multiple fibre routes and direct access to undersea cables to guarantee reliable connectivity beyond Namibia’s borders.
“We have separate fibre routes through South Africa, including TT Data, as well as direct undersea cable connections to Europe and southern Africa. This foundational layer enables the network to support 4G and 5G services across Namibia, ensuring coverage and capacity in some areas,” he said.
Registered in 2016, Loc8 began as a software development company before expanding into telecommunications. Over the years, it has secured multiple licences, including spectrum use rights for both 4G and 5G, to build national coverage and expand capacity in high-demand areas.
According to CRAN, the new 5G licences allow operators to use the assigned frequencies 703–788 MHz and 790–862 MHz to provide international mobile services.
Licensees are required to maintain a minimum downlink data speed of 20 Mbps and comply with the Quality-of-Service Regulations.
The spectrum licences are valid for 10 years, with the option of renewal, but may also be cancelled or transferred under the regulations.
MTC became the first operator to launch 5G in Namibia in August 2025. Loc8’s planned rollout will make it the second company to activate the technology in the country.
