Allexer Namundjembo
MTC has announced plans to open new mobile homes in northern Namibia this year, with a focus on Katima Mulilo, Divundu, and Rundu, as demand for telecommunications services continues to grow.
The announcement was made during the launch of the company’s 38th mobile home in Omuthiya on Friday.
MTC’s chief commercial officer, Octivious Kahiya, said the expansion responds to rising business activity and population growth in the north-eastern regions.
“Within this calendar year, we anticipate opening stores in the North East due to the increase in business and SME sectors and the overall population growth. Emphasis will be given to Katima Mulilo, Divundu, and Rundu,” Kahiya said.
He added that the decision to establish a permanent presence in Omuthiya had been in planning for nearly two years.
“MTC’s intent and desire to have a presence in Omuthiya has been on our planning radar for nearly two years,” he said.
“What gave further motivation to this was the astonishing customer growth witnessed not only in Omuthiya but also in the region and surrounding constituencies,” he said.
Until now, residents of Omuthiya and surrounding villages previously had to travel more than 70 kilometres to Ondangwa or over 130 kilometres to Tsumeb to access services such as SIM card registration, replacements, and account management.
The town was previously served only by a mobile van that visited twice a week.
During the national SIM card registration drive between late 2023 and early 2024, residents faced long queues, missed deadlines, and system delays due to limited access.
The situation created financial and logistical burdens, especially for low-income households.
The newly opened mobile home is expected to ease those challenges and expand digital access in the Oshikoto region.
Speaking at the launch, 58-year-old Omuthiya resident Sakaria Shivute said the development was long overdue.
“Finally, I can say that we are recognised as part of the development. I will no longer have to spend money on transport fares to Ondangwa for MTC services. We are therefore happy, and we welcome MTC in our town,” he said.
Minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus officiated the launch.
She said the government remains committed to closing the digital gap, adding that it will continue to facilitate and create an enabling environment that encourages the provision of access to and delivery of essential services to the people.
“Omuthiya is the capital town of the Oshikoto region, and the residents here, just like any other, deserve access to quality ICT services. I therefore urge MTC to continue its commendable effort of bringing inclusivity. To the residents of this town, this is development on our doorstep. I urge you to guard and protect this facility; it belongs to you,” said Theofelus.
Oshikoto regional governor Sacky Kathindi said the mobile home represents more than just a service point.
“This mobile home stands as a symbol of progress. It signifies an important shift in how we deliver essential services to our people, especially in rural and peri-urban areas,” he said.
“The geographical location should no longer be a limitation for accessing mobile services or digital tools that can uplift livelihoods. We therefore commend MTC for this bold and innovative step. The presence of this mobile home in Omuthiya brings hope to young entrepreneurs, to students, to farmers, and to small business owners who rely on connectivity to thrive.”
