Minister Theofelus Launches Universal Service Fund Tower in Epinga

Keynote address by Emma Theofelus, minister of information and communication technology, delivered in Epinga, Ohangwena region, on 19 November 2025

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Good morning,

Otwalalapo Oomeme no Tate, Okuku no Tatekulu? Aaye, inatuhafa ketenda letwapo pEpinga mbela. Ondiigolo.

It is with great pleasure that we celebrate this historic occasion – the official launch of the Universal Service Fund Epinga Tower here in the beautiful Ohangwena region. I extend my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you present today, especially the community members who have taken the time to be here. Your presence signifies your commitment to development and your belief in a future where connectivity empowers all.

Today’s event represents far more than the unveiling of a piece of infrastructure. It symbolises our collective journey toward a more inclusive and connected Namibia. The launch of the USF Epinga Tower is a milestone that embodies progress, inclusion, and empowerment. It stands as a testament to our nation’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every Namibian, regardless of location, has access to vital communication services. This tower is a gateway to opportunities, education, healthcare, and economic growth.

This project aligns with our national priorities and is a concrete step toward achieving universal access to information and communication technologies. Bridging the digital divide remains at the core of our development agenda. The Government of the Republic of Namibia recognises that in today’s world, digital connectivity is not a luxury but a necessity – an essential driver of social and economic development. The USF Epinga Tower helps ensure that no Namibian is left behind and that rural and underserved communities are fully included in our digital progress.

As we advance into phase two of the Universal Service Fund rollout, the government has committed N$145 million to ensure that no community is left behind. This allocation forms part of the national commitment under capital projects for the period 2024 to 2027, aimed at accelerating the deployment of digital technology and infrastructure across the country.

Allow me to reflect briefly on our progress under phase one of the programme. Through the Universal Service Fund, nine 4G mobile radio access network towers were approved for construction across the Kavango East, Kavango West, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, and Kunene regions. Other regions are catered for under additional programmes operated by the ministry to expand network connectivity.

Once completed, these sites will provide 4G services to an additional 4 765 Namibians who previously had no connectivity. The programme will also deliver free 4G voice and broadband data services for seven years to 16 schools and four clinics in these areas. After this period, the ministries of health and social services, and education, innovation, youth, sport, arts and culture will assume responsibility for sustaining these services. 

Today’s commissioning of the Epinga site marks the first of these phase one towers to go live, with the remaining sites to follow.

Under phase two, 11 sites have been allocated for new infrastructure development. The bidding process has been completed, and I am pleased to announce that the award of these sites will be made public this Friday, 21 November 2025.

Looking ahead, assessments are already underway to identify additional locations for phase three of the Universal Service Fund rollout. This is why the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been visiting regional leaders across the country to pinpoint areas in various regions that require connectivity or strengthened communications.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Our president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, is very clear that we are not operating as business as usual. Therefore, our actions, operations, and governing documents cannot continue in the usual manner. We must embrace the new marching orders on how the country is being led from the highest office and cascaded down to every government entity, including those that are an extension of government at constituency level. One heart, one mind.

The successful execution of the USF since the Communications Act was enacted in 2009 indicates the broader vision of this administration and its leadership. At the Ministry of ICT, we intend to guide this sector to achieve the country’s vision for continued growth and progress of digitisation for the benefit of all Namibians. As minister of ICT charged with the policy and political leadership of this industry, you can count on my commitment to ensuring this vision becomes a reality.

Connectivity has the power to transform lives in profound ways. With access to mobile networks, a pupil in Epinga can now access online study materials, participate in remote learning, and broaden their horizons beyond traditional classroom walls. A farmer can check market prices in real time, enabling better decision-making and improved income. Small business owners can reach new customers beyond their immediate surroundings, expanding markets and creating jobs.

Similarly, the local clinic – as an anchor institution – can now use mobile connectivity to access telemedicine services, enabling healthcare workers to consult specialists remotely, receive updated treatment guidelines instantly, and report health emergencies more efficiently. This will help reduce delays in care, improve disease management, and strengthen health outcomes for the entire community. In essence, connectivity uplifts livelihoods, empowers communities, and fuels national development.

I also want to recognise and celebrate the collaborative effort that has brought us here today. The successful deployment of this tower is  testament to teamwork between the Ministry of ICT, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia through the Universal Service Fund, Mobile Telecommunications Limited, the Government of the Republic of Namibia, and most importantly, the community members of Epinga. Your cooperation, trust, and active participation have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality.

The benefits of today’s launch extend beyond the physical tower. As part of our commitment to advancing digital inclusion, the Universal Service Fund is donating 20 smartphones to residents of Epinga, along with distributing 100 SIM cards. Mobile Telecommunications Limited will also make discounted smartphones available for purchase. Furthermore, a mobile service van will provide ongoing support, training, and assistance directly within communities, bringing the benefits of connectivity closer to your doorsteps.

Director of ceremonies,

As we switch on the signal today, we are switching on hope, connection, and possibility. We are opening new chapters of learning, enterprise, and social cohesion. Let this tower stand as a symbol of our collective aspiration: a Namibia where no one is left behind, where everyone has a voice, and where connectivity empowers all to reach their full potential.

It is now my honour to officially launch the Universal Service Fund Epinga Tower. May it stand tall as a beacon of progress for generations to come.

I thank you.

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