The Namibian information and communication technology (ICT) sector saw an increase by 1% of revenue during the second quarter (Q2) of this year.
This is despite the fact that investments in the sector dropped by 48% compared to the previous quarter due to the conclusion of one-off infrastructure projects.
Despite this, Telecom Namibia and Paratus pressed ahead with investments in network upgrades and software innovation.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has released its Quarterly Statistics Bulletin for the period 1 April to 30 June 2025, offering a snapshot of the country’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) landscape across telecommunications, broadcasting, cybersecurity, and postal services.
The report paints a picture of shifting consumer trends, robust data demand, and emerging digital risks.
Mobile broadband usage via smartphones grew by 4%, with the proportion of SIM cards used for internet access climbing from 58% to 61%, driven largely by MTC subscribers. In contrast, fixed-line subscriptions fell by 1%, reinforcing the shift toward mobile and broadband-based solutions such as VoIP.
Mobile traffic volumes surged, with outgoing minutes up by 7% and mobile data consumption increasing by 8%, while SMS volumes continued their downward slide, falling by 3%.
“These figures show the clear move from traditional voice and SMS services to data-driven platforms, reshaping how Namibians connect and communicate,” said Mr Mufaro Nesongano, the manager for communication and consumer relations at CRAN.
Another issue raised is cybersecurity, which took centre stage in Q2, with reported cyber-threat events more than doubling, fuelled by the android.badbox2 botnet targeting low-cost Android devices and smart systems.
Vulnerabilities also rose by 2%, highlighting the urgent need for stronger defences and resilience across networks.
The broadcasting sector reflected global trends, with pay-TV subscriptions falling by 11% as Namibians increasingly embraced streaming services such as Netflix. The postal sector, however, showed signs of recovery, with postbox usage climbing 10% and private bag utilisation growing by 4%.
“The Quarterly Bulletin tells a powerful story of Namibia’s digital evolution. From the way people consume data, to the threats they face online, and even how they watch television, the landscape is transforming rapidly,” Nesongano added.
“CRAN remains committed to ensuring that this evolution takes place in a secure, competitive, and consumer-focused environment.”
In the photo: CRAN’s manager for communication and consumer relations, Mr Mufaro Nesongano.
