Namibia’s telecommunications sector has reached a major milestone, generating over N$800 million ($43 million) in data revenue in Q3 2024. This surge reflects a broader African trend, where data services have overtaken traditional voice calls as the primary revenue driver for telecom companies.
According to the Namibian Communications Commission, data services now account for 70% of total mobile service revenue, up from 46% in 2018. The shift is fueled by rising smartphone adoption, affordable data plans, and increasing demand for digital content.
This pattern mirrors developments across Africa. In Q3 2024, MTN Nigeria reported a 52.3% increase in data revenue, driven by high demand for streaming, social media, and remote work applications. Similarly, Orange’s Middle East and Africa operations recorded a 10.5% revenue increase, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth.
Namibian telecom companies are responding to the surge in data demand with major infrastructure investments. State-owned Telecom Namibia has launched a nationwide initiative to expand 4G coverage and is exploring 5G deployment in urban centers to enhance connectivity for businesses and consumers.
Government policies have also played a key role in the sector’s growth. The National Broadband Policy has set ambitious targets for internet penetration, aiming to extend connectivity to even the most remote regions.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. Rural areas still face significant connectivity gaps, prompting telecom providers to explore alternative solutions such as satellite internet and community networks. Additionally, the rapid growth in data consumption has raised cybersecurity concerns, prompting the government to work on data protection legislation to ensure digital safety and transparency.
The economic benefits of Namibia’s data boom are far-reaching. Enhanced internet access is driving growth in e-commerce, education, and healthcare, while also creating new job opportunities. By continuing to invest in infrastructure and digital security, Namibia is positioning itself to fully capitalize on the digital revolution.
