…as Minister calls for support of PowerCom’s infrastructure drive
PowerCom is not simply constructing infrastructure (towers); they are building bridges and bridging the digital divide, connecting people to a world of information and opportunities, and empowering the people in various regions to actively participate in the digital age.
This was said by the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Powercom Howebees tower last week.
“As I have stated previously, allow me to reiterate this once more: It is for this same reason I call upon all key stakeholders to continue collaborating and responding to PowerCom calls, be it in terms of availing land (for lease at reasonable amounts) for tower construction in a timely fashion or responding timely to the Environmental Impact Assessment process, as these are the key enablers in us realising this kind of infrastructure across the country.
“This in return shall ensure equitable access to technology across the nation, and in the same vein, empower all Namibians to contribute to and benefit from a thriving digital economy,” Theofelus expressed.
She went on to say that the 20 network tower development projects that PowerCom undertook and committed to complete by the end of September 2024 (at the tune of about N$32 million) are not small initiatives, and they represent far more than just the construction of the physical tower structures, adding that the average network tower was constructed at an amount of about N$1.8 million each.
“The cost of course varies depending on the type of tower. Just as I echoed in my previous keynote addresses, this is indeed a giant leap forward in Namibia’s digital journey, opening up a world of opportunity for the people of the great Karas Region. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) is driven by a clear and unwavering vision: to transform Namibia into a digitally inclusive nation, where technology empowers all citizens and acts as a cornerstone for progress.
“This vision underpins every aspect of our work, from crafting national policy to spearheading critical infrastructure development initiatives. We are actively pursuing several initiatives that weave the fabric of this digital future. Our “Smart Namibia” strategy focusses on leveraging technology as a powerful tool to propel economic growth, enhance service delivery across sectors, and empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their destinies,” she said.
The “Access for All” program is a cornerstone initiative dedicated to expanding broadband connectivity across the nation, particularly in underserved rural areas like the Keetmanshoop rural and others. These initiatives are not mere pronouncements; they are concrete steps, meticulously planned and diligently executed, to ensure all Namibians have the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.
“We are aware we are competing with other government priorities such as education, health, housing, sanitation, water availability, electricity expansion, and food security. [If you were government, what would the hierarchy of addressing these priorities look like?] The governor and councillor here are already petitioning for more areas to be connected. Today, as we conclude the PowerCom mini-ground-breaking series, let us celebrate a shining example of this vision translated into tangible action.
“I would like to express my deepest appreciation to PowerCom and Telecom Namibia for their unwavering commitment to building this critical telecommunication tower, a testimony that they are not just catering for the urban communities but equally so, they are indeed investing in rural communities as well. I am fully aware of the heavy investments that the two entities are forking out to ensure that our inclusive approach is not mere talk but tangible actions, in alignment with the MICT’s mission and government objectives,” said Theofelus.
In conclusion, the Minister said the ground-breaking at Howobees also marks the site handover with an estimated completion time of 60 days. It further concludes PowerCom’s ground-breaking series, which started in the Zambezi region to the Kavango East and Kavango West regions, and finally in the Karas Region.
“This is a powerful testament to the transformative power of partnership. The combined efforts of PowerCom, Telecom Namibia, MTC, other players in the digital space, the Government of the Republic of Namibia, Mr. and Mrs. Erasmus, and all key stakeholders have made this project a reality. This collaborative spirit is crucial as we strive to build a truly connected Namibia, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age. Therefore, let us work together—government, industry, and citizens alike—to ensure that every Namibian has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age. The telecommunications industry is strategic, and we should ensure that the Karas region benefits maximally through telecommunications as we tap into the new and emerging industries powered by innovative technologies such as green hydrogen and new oil discoveries,” she said.