Mobile network blackout on Rosh Pinah-Oranjemund road raises safety fears

The lack of mobile network coverage along the road between Rosh Pinah and Oranjemund has raised safety concerns, with lawmakers warning that lives could be lost if accidents occur in the area.

National Council member Nestor Sheimi raised the issue on Tuesday while contributing to the budget debate for the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology.

Sheimi said motorists travelling on the busy route are left vulnerable because there is little to no network connectivity along the stretch.

“If an accident occurs between Oranjemund and Rosh Pinah, lives will be lost because there is no working network. MTC or the ministry must treat this matter with urgency because the frequency of vehicles on that road is high,” he said.

He called on the ministry and mobile service providers to urgently install network towers capable of covering long distances, adding that the area should also benefit from modern 5G services.

Fellow parliamentarian John Moonde said the ministry should prioritise critical areas to ensure inclusive digital access and reliable communication services.

Moonde also criticised state-owned companies – Telecom Namibia⁠ and Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) – over frequent internet disruptions, particularly in the Khomas region.

He said Telecom Namibia, having enjoyed years of monopoly, is expected to possess the infrastructure and expertise needed to provide reliable internet and communication services, especially in rural areas where network towers remain scarce.

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