Africa Online and Radio Electronic (Pty) Ltd have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to assess the deployment of OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology to expand broadband connectivity across Namibia, particularly in underserved rural and remote areas.
The agreement, signed by Africa Online Managing Director Ingram van Heerden and Radio Electronic Chief Executive Officer Francois du Toit, establishes a framework for evaluating the technical, commercial and operational viability of satellite-enabled broadband services that complement Namibia’s existing telecommunications infrastructure.
The initiative aims to address connectivity gaps in areas where fibre and other terrestrial networks remain difficult or uneconomical to deploy.
Under the assessment, the two companies will evaluate how OneWeb’s global LEO satellite network could deliver secure, resilient and low-latency broadband services to businesses, public institutions and communities beyond the reach of conventional infrastructure.
The study will also examine how satellite connectivity could strengthen network resilience, improve business continuity and provide redundancy for critical operations across both the public and private sectors.
“Namibia’s digital future depends on ensuring that connectivity reaches every sector of the economy, not only those located within established network footprints,” said van Heerden.
“This Letter of Intent represents an opportunity to evaluate how emerging satellite technologies can complement existing infrastructure and expand access to reliable connectivity in a practical, scalable and sustainable way.”
The assessment will focus on connectivity requirements across key sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, education, healthcare, logistics and government services, where reliable communications are increasingly essential for productivity, operational efficiency and service delivery.
Du Toit said Namibia’s geography requires alternative technologies to overcome connectivity challenges.
“Namibia’s geography presents unique connectivity challenges that require innovative and adaptable solutions. By combining our respective expertise, we have an opportunity to evaluate technologies that could strengthen national connectivity and unlock new possibilities for industries and communities operating in remote environments,” he said.
Over the coming months, the companies will undertake technical studies, commercial evaluations and market assessments to identify potential deployment opportunities and determine where satellite broadband could deliver the greatest value.
The findings will inform any future decision on a formal commercial partnership or the rollout of satellite-enabled connectivity services.
Africa Online said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to support Namibia’s digital transformation by improving access to high-speed internet, strengthening communications infrastructure and extending connectivity to regions where traditional network deployment remains challenging.
