PowerCom is in discussions with Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) and Telecom Namibia about the rollout of fifth-generation (5G) mobile network services in Namibia.
PowerCom Chief Executive Officer Beatus Amadhila said the talks focus on the use of frequencies currently held by MTC and Telecom.
“We are currently in the consultation phase with MTC and Telecom, who hold the frequency needed to start 5G. One of the initial challenges is that their priority is upgrading existing sites to 5G,” Amadhila said.
He said both companies are still working on upgrading their current network infrastructure before considering new sites for 5G expansion.
PowerCom wants operators to share sites to avoid duplication and to speed up the rollout.
“So our planning is in consultation with all the active players, and our expectation is that we should at least have more than one operator at one site,” Amadhila said.
He said infrastructure sharing is also being discussed, but no final decision has been made.
“Infrastructure sharing among operators is also under discussion. It remains in the planning phase, and it is still unclear whether the rollout will be collaborative or independent,” Amadhila said.
PowerCom will continue to coordinate with operators as the national 5G rollout progresses.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) awarded 5G licences in 2023 to Loc8 Mobile, Telecom Namibia, and MTC, following a spectrum auction that raised about N$28.5 million.
The licences cover frequencies in the 703-788 MHz and 790-862 MHz ranges and require operators to maintain a minimum downlink speed of 20 Mbps in line with CRAN’s quality standards.
Each licence is valid for 10 years and can be renewed, cancelled, or transferred under CRAN regulations.
