Satellite connectivity firm, Paratus Group, has launched Namibia’s first private nationwide mobile network, entering a sector long dominated by state-owned operators and marking the most significant shake-up in the country’s telecoms industry.
- •The pan-African company has rolled out 4G LTE and 5G services across Namibia after investing more than 600 million Namibian dollars in the project over the past year.
- •The move coincides with the company’s 20th anniversary in Namibia, its strongest market and operational hub where it has injected 1.417 billion Namibian dollars since 2018.
- •Paratus’ operations in the country have mainly been in the development of fiber network and satellite infrastructure including the Equiano subsea cable, the development of Tier 3 by design data centers, full network services, and new mobile and LEO satellite services.
“Launching Namibia’s first private mobile network is a deliberate step in our mission to transform Africa’s digital landscape. By offering transparent, affordable services, we’re removing barriers and empowering more people to participate in the digital economy,” said the CEO for the Paratus Group, Schalk Erasmus.
One third of the investment went into building a new digital technology stack that eliminates legacy systems and centralizes all services. This was developed in collaboration with Cerillion as the digital technology partner and Nokia as its mobile network partner.
The addition of mobile services now allows the company to compete head-on with state-backed MTC, Namibia’s largest operator, and Telecom Namibia. Paratus said its packages will emphasize affordability and transparency, an approach that could challenge the high-cost structure of incumbent providers. The network includes features such as Wi-Fi calling, Voice over LTE, and faster digital activation times, aiming to offer seamless integration between mobile, home, and business connectivity.
“This launch marks a defining moment in our journey: a full mobile service going live across Namibia. I want to thank every one of the Namibian team who went the extra mile to make this happen. We’re not just launching a product; we’re challenging the status quo,” Erasmus said.
Across Africa, Paratus operates in 15 countries including Kenya, with more than 1,100 employees and extends satellite services to over 30 markets. The Namibian launch strengthens its wider pan-African footprint, which includes cross-continental fiber routes and international connectivity via Equiano to Europe and the U.S.
