Windhoek: The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is set to launch its inaugural Tech Challenge on Monday, aiming to foster innovation, digital inclusion, and encourage youth participation within Namibia’s burgeoning technology sector.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the initiative was announced in a media release by Mufaro Nesongano, Executive for Communication and Consumer Relations at CRAN, on Sunday. The competition calls on Namibian citizens and permanent residents aged between 18 to 35 to submit solutions, either operational or at the prototype stage, that tackle real-world issues in areas like AgriTech for off-grid farmers, HealthTech, public service delivery, and the gig economy.
Nesongano emphasized that the initiative underscores CRAN’s dedication to empowering the youth through technology. “Namibia’s future lies in the hands of its young thinkers and creators. Through the Tech Challenge, we are not only inviting ideas but investing in the potential of our youth to shape the digital economy,” he stated.
Participants can enter the competition individually or as part of a team, with the stipulation that all team members must be Namibian citizens or permanent residents. The deadline for submissions is set for Friday, 07 November 2025 at 23h59, with winners to be announced on 21 November 2025 after assessment by a panel of expert judges.
The Tech Challenge offers a total prize pool of N.dollars 100 000, distributed as N.dollars 50 000 for the first-place winner, N.dollars 30 000 for the second place, and N.dollars 20 000 for the third place. Nesongano further noted that while the competition seeks innovative ideas, its ultimate goal is to develop solutions with the potential to transform lives, particularly in underserved communities. “We are creating a space where innovation meets impact,” he said, highlighting the initiative’s alignment with national development priorities through technology-driven empowerment.
Winning projects will be showcased on CRAN’s digital platforms and could potentially attract additional support or partnerships from both public and private entities. Interested participants are encouraged to visit the official CRAN website or follow CRAN’s social media channels for more details on registration and submission processes.