Telecom Namibia has signed a partnership agreement with fibre infrastructure provider Lightstruck that will allow the state-owned telecommunications company to expand fibre broadband services without having to build its own network in certain areas.
The agreement is based on an open-access model, under which Lightstruck will build, own and maintain the fibre infrastructure, while Telecom Namibia will use that network to provide internet services to households and businesses.
The partnership forms part of Telecom Namibia’s strategy to accelerate fibre connectivity, expand broadband coverage and improve access to high-speed internet services across the country.
Telecom Namibia Chief Executive Officer Dr Stanley Shanapinda said the arrangement would enable the company to expand services more quickly and efficiently.
“The signing of this partnership with Lightstruck marks another key milestone in our fibre expansion journey. It reflects our commitment to leveraging open-access networks to accelerate connectivity, enhance customer choice, and deliver innovative, high-quality digital services,” Shanapinda said.
He said the agreement would help avoid unnecessary duplication of infrastructure investment while improving the speed of network deployment.
“Through this collaboration, we are embracing infrastructure sharing as a strategic approach to avoid duplication of efforts, fast-track network deployment, and improve overall efficiency in the sector.”
Under the agreement, customers in areas already covered by Lightstruck’s fibre network will be able to subscribe to Telecom Namibia fibre services without the company having to install separate infrastructure.
Lightstruck’s network is currently operational in Khomasdal, Dorado Park, Rocky Crest, Osona Village and Rehoboth, creating immediate opportunities for Telecom Namibia customers in those locations to migrate to fibre-based internet services.
The partnership also forms part of Telecom Namibia’s efforts to reduce its reliance on copper-based networks, which continue to be affected by theft and vandalism.
“At a time when copper theft remains a daily occurrence and continues to disrupt services, the transition to fibre strengthens the resilience and reliability of our network infrastructure,” Shanapinda said.
Lightstruck Director Szacky Nujoma said the agreement demonstrates the benefits of infrastructure sharing within the telecommunications sector.
“We are proud to partner with Telecom Namibia in advancing fibre connectivity across Namibia through an open-access model. As a neutral infrastructure provider, our focus is on enabling service providers to deliver high-quality services over a reliable network,” Nujoma said.
He said the partnership would support broader industry goals by increasing access to next-generation broadband infrastructure.
“This collaboration underscores the value of shared infrastructure in driving competition, efficiency, and improved access to next-generation connectivity.”
Nujoma added that the company has sufficient shareholder support to continue expanding its network footprint.
“We are particularly encouraged by the strong commitment from shareholders, who are prepared to invest the necessary capital, and therefore do not foresee any funding constraints.”
The agreement follows an operational expenditure-based model, meaning Telecom Namibia pays to use the network rather than funding the construction of the infrastructure itself.
Both companies believe the partnership will accelerate fibre adoption, improve broadband availability and support Namibia’s digital transformation agenda as demand for high-speed internet continues to increase.
