The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has launched its inaugural CRAN Tech Challenge on 20 October 2025, marking a bold step toward fostering innovation, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment within Namibia’s growing tech ecosystem.
The CRAN Tech Challenge is a platform designed to spark creativity and drive youth participation by inviting Namibian citizens and permanent residents aged 18 to 35 to submit operational or prototype-stage solutions that tackle real-world challenges.
The focus areas include AgriTech for off-grid farmers, HealthTech and public service tools, and freelance or gig economy solutions.
The Tech Challenge positions CRAN as a catalyst for innovation, nurturing a pipeline of investable ideas and inspiring stories that will strengthen consumer and stakeholder engagement across Namibia’s digital landscape.
Mr Mufaro Nesongano, the Executive for Communication and Consumer Relations at CRAN, underscored the importance of youth-led innovation, noting that “Namibia’s future lies in the hands of its young thinkers and creators.
“Through the Tech Challenge, we are not only inviting ideas, but we are investing in the potential of our youth to shape the digital economy.”
Nesongano said that entries are open to individuals or teams, provided all team members are Namibian citizens or permanent residents, and must submit their entries by Friday, 7 November 2025, at 23h59 (CAT).
The winners will be announced on Friday, 21 November 2025, following a rigorous evaluation by a panel of expert judges.
“This initiative reflects CRAN’s commitment to inclusive growth, where technology becomes a tool for empowerment, sustainability, and national development,” added Nesongano.
The competition features a prize pool of N$100,000, rewarding the top three entries that best demonstrate creativity, impact, and alignment with CRAN’s digital inclusion agenda.
The first-place winner will receive N$50,000, while the second-place winner gets N$30,000, and the third-place winner gets N$20,000.
Nesongano further explained the strategic intent of the challenge, stating that, “We are creating a space where innovation meets impact. The Tech Challenge is not just about ideas; it is about developing solutions that can transform lives, particularly in underserved communities.”
He also stated that the CRAN Tech Challenge will also amplify the voices of young innovators through media exposure and potential partnerships with public and private stakeholders. Winning entries will be showcased across CRAN’s digital platforms and may qualify for further development support.
“By focusing on AgriTech, HealthTech, and the gig economy, we are aligning with national priorities and global trends that call for inclusive, tech-driven solutions.
“For more information on how to register and submit entries, visit www.cran.na or follow CRAN on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), LinkedIn, and YouTube.”
In the photo: Mr. Mufaro Nesongano, CRAN’s Executive for Communication and Consumer Relations.
