Africa Online and Radio Electronic (Pty) Ltd have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to jointly evaluate how OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology could strengthen broadband connectivity across Namibia, particularly in rural, remote and geographically challenging areas where traditional terrestrial infrastructure remains limited.
Signed by Ingram van Heerden, Managing Director of Africa Online, and Francois du Toit, Chief Executive Officer of Radio Electronic (Pty) Ltd, the Letter of Intent establishes a collaborative framework for assessing the technical, commercial and operational viability of satellite-enabled connectivity solutions that complement Namibia’s existing telecommunications infrastructure.
The initiative reflects a shared commitment to exploring innovative technologies that can help close the digital divide and support Namibia’s long-term digital transformation ambitions.
As demand for reliable, high-speed connectivity continues to accelerate, access to dependable internet has become increasingly critical to economic growth, public service delivery and social development. From commercial agriculture and mining operations to schools, healthcare facilities, tourism establishments and government services, organisations across Namibia are becoming more reliant on digital technologies to operate efficiently and remain competitive.
Although Namibia has made significant progress in expanding fibre and wireless networks, vast distances, challenging terrain and the high cost of terrestrial infrastructure continue to limit connectivity in many parts of the country. Satellite technology offers an opportunity to complement existing networks by extending broadband access to areas where conventional deployment is difficult or economically impractical.
Through the evaluation, Africa Online and Radio Electronic will assess how OneWeb’s global LEO satellite network could support resilient, secure and low-latency broadband connectivity for businesses, institutions and communities operating beyond the reach of traditional infrastructure. The assessment will also explore opportunities to enhance network resilience, improve business continuity and provide redundancy for mission-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 Ingram van Heerden, Managing Director of Africa Online. “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 initial assessment phase will consider connectivity requirements across priority sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, education, healthcare, logistics and government services. Particular attention will be given to environments where reliable communications are essential for productivity, operational efficiency, safety and service delivery.
“Namibia’s geography presents unique connectivity challenges that require innovative and adaptable solutions,” said Francois du Toit, Chief Executive Officer of Radio Electronic (Pty) Ltd. “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.”
Over the coming months, both organisations will undertake technical studies, commercial evaluations and market assessments to identify potential deployment opportunities and determine where satellite-enabled services can deliver the greatest value. The outcomes of this evaluation will guide any future decisions regarding a formal commercial partnership or implementation programme.
The Letter of Intent marks an important strategic milestone, and reflects the shared intent of both organisations to explore innovative connectivity solutions that support Namibia’s digital economy, strengthen national resilience and improve access to modern communications infrastructure.
Ultimately, the significance of this collaboration extends beyond technology. Reliable connectivity enables businesses to compete, schools to access digital learning, healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes, governments to deliver services more efficiently and communities to participate more fully in an increasingly connected world.
As Namibia continues to pursue inclusive economic growth and digital transformation, Africa Online and Radio Electronic believe that innovation, collaboration and strategic investment in next-generation connectivity solutions will play a vital role in ensuring that no region is left behind.