Chamwe Kaira
Namibia recorded an increase in mobile broadband usage and steady performance across the information and communication technology sector in the third quarter of 2025, according to the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran).
The total number of active SIM cards rose by 3% during the quarter, reversing the stability recorded in the previous period.
The growth was driven by a 3% increase in prepaid subscriptions, while postpaid subscriptions grew by 1%.
“Mobile broadband usage rose by 6%, and dongle and router-based broadband subscriptions increased significantly by 30%, although from a relatively small base indicating renewed interest in fixed mobile wireless alternatives,” said Mufaro Nesongano, executive for communication and consumer relations at Cran, in the latest quarterly statistics bulletin for July to September 2025.
The share of SIM cards used for internet access increased from 61% to 63%, reflecting a continued shift toward data-focused services.
This trend follows rising demand for streaming, social media use, and promotional data offerings from operators.
Fixed-line subscriptions declined by 2%, extending the long-term downward trend in both residential and business segments.
“In the third quarter of 2025, total mobile outgoing minutes increased by 8%, marking the second consecutive quarter of recovery following a sharp decline in first quarter. SMS traffic increased marginally by 1%, showing early signs of stabilisation. Mobile data usage grew significantly, driven largely by a surge in consumption from Paratus Telecommunications Limited following the launch of their new LTE network and associated PAGE 6 packages in August 2025,” Nesongano said.
ICT sector revenue increased by 1% during the quarter, maintaining steady growth. Operating expenses eased slightly, improving the cost-to-revenue balance.
Investment in the telecommunications sector also increased, recovering from the decline recorded in the previous quarter.
Although investment levels remain below those of the first quarter of 2025, Cran noted ongoing network expansion by operators such as MTC, Telecom Namibia, and Paratus. These efforts focus on fibre rollout and software upgrades.
Reported cybersecurity incidents dropped by about 53% in the third quarter. Cran cautioned that exposure levels and system vulnerabilities remain largely unchanged, indicating that the decline may reflect shifts in scanning activity rather than reduced cyber risk.
The broadcasting sector recorded an average 3.5% increase in pay-TV subscriptions. DStv subscriptions grew by 4%, supported by popular sports content such as the English Premier League. GoTV subscriptions declined by 3%, amid competition from online streaming platforms.
Postal services remained stable during the quarter. Postbox occupancy stood at 48%, while private bag usage was recorded at 35%, showing consistent demand despite the wider move toward digital communication.
“The rural post office network also remained unchanged, with 83% of post offices situated in rural areas, continuing to provide universal connectivity of vital communication and parcel services in underserved communities,” Nesongano said.
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Mufaro Nesongano
