RMB Namibia, a division of First National Bank of Namibia Limited, has provided Telecom Namibia Limited (Telecom) with a NAD 405 million, seven-year Social Loan, to support its five-year transformational strategy to modernise its infrastructure and expand affordable connectivity nationwide.
“Telecom’s key objective is to ensure that every citizen can access and use entertainment, communication, information, education, commerce, and online health services through fast, reliable, and affordable internet, voice, and data connectivity. The strategy is closely aligned with Namibia’s national development plan, making this transaction a direct investment in the country’s socio-economic progress,” Telecom Namibia CEO, Dr Stanley Shanapinda, commented.
Namibia’s ICT infrastructure remains inadequate, with 11 of 14 regions falling below the 95% broadband policy target. The country ranks 22nd of 47 in sub-Saharan Africa and 169th of 220 globally for broadband speed, with a mean download rate of 10.8 Mbps. Legacy copper networks, insufficient fiber coverage, and reliance on 2G/3G technology further limit access.
Deepening digital inclusion
The funding is supporting two priority initiatives: a fiber-to-the-home rollout that will deliver faster broadband speeds able to meet and exceed the recently announced national minimum requirement of 25 Mbps; and mobile upgrades involving new base stations upgradable to 5G. These upgrades will benefit schools, hospitals and public services and support the transition from legacy 2G/3G to 4G technology.
Leonard Hamunyela, Transactor at RMB Namibia, commented: “This partnership with Telecom is more than just financing infrastructure – it is about enabling digital inclusion. By supporting Telecom’s modernisation drive, RMB Namibia is not only financing infrastructure but also enabling broader social and economic inclusion. Enhanced broadband and mobile connectivity will empower Namibians with improved access to essential services, while strengthening the country’s competitiveness in the digital economy.”
Recognising the broader sustainability benefits of the Telecom strategy, RMB structured the funding as a social loan in accordance with the Loan Market Association’s Social Loan Principles (SLP) – an internationally accepted framework that seeks to facilitate economic activity that promotes social outcomes. Social loans are designed to support social issues such as access to basic telecommunications infrastructure. The purpose of this funding is to enable a reduction in the digital divide between urban and rural communities in Namibia.
Dr Shanapinda further stated: “Telecom Namibia remains steadfast in its commitment to driving broader social impact and deepening digital inclusion across the country. Building on the current investment programme, the company is adopting several key initiatives to reduce connectivity gaps, expanding access to high‑quality broadband, and strengthening digital participation for underserved communities. These efforts include accelerating fibre and 4G/LTE expansion to improve service quality, supporting digital‑skills development programmes, enhancing affordability through targeted service offerings, and collaborating with government and industry stakeholders to advance national digital transformation priorities. Through these continued commitments, Telecom Namibia aims to empower more Namibians with the tools, opportunities, and connectivity needed to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.”
RMB Namibia is proud to support Telecom Namibia in building a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable digital future for all.
About RMB Namibia
RMB Namibia stands at the forefront of financial innovation and tailored solutions for clients across sectors. With a proven track record of structuring complex transactions and delivering forward-thinking advisory services, RMB Namibia leverages its local expertise and global reach to unlock value for its clients and for the nation as a whole. The bank’s advanced digital platforms, sustainable finance initiatives, and commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth continue to set new benchmarks in the industry.
About Telecom Namibia
Telecom Namibia Limited, established in August 1992, is a national telecommunications operator wholly owned by the Government of the Republic of Namibia. Over the years, the company has invested billions in state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure, evolving from a traditional telephone service provider into one of Namibia’s leading ICT players. Today, Telecom Namibia operates the country’s largest digital telecommunications network. With a strong focus on customer‑driven innovation, the company delivers a comprehensive suite of broadband, data, voice, fixed wireless, fibre, copper, and mobile services, while also enabling onward connectivity for neighbouring land‑locked countries – solidifying its role as a key enabler of digital transformation in Namibia and the region.
