Windhoek: Namibia has successfully forged a strong information and communication technology (ICT) alliance with neighbouring Angola, marking a significant step towards enhanced digital cooperation.
According to Namibia Press Agency, as the 5th ANGOTIC 2025 International ICT Forum in Luanda came to an end, Namibian Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus underscored the concentrated efforts to solidify bilateral ties. She emphasized that these efforts are poised to unlock substantial opportunities for national development and regional integration.
During a bilateral engagement on the sidelines of ANGOTIC 2025, Theofelus expressed gratitude for the invitation to Angola and the opportunity to enhance the mutual relationship. She particularly praised the swift action in facilitating the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between institutions and agencies under her ministry, specifically the NBC and NAMPA, with their Angolan counterparts.
Theofelus remarked, "I must thank you wholeheartedly for expediting the signing of MoUs between institutions and agencies under our ministry, the national broadcaster and press agency. This has come at an opportune time for Namibia," highlighting the fact that Namibia has a new government led by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Her first trip as Head of State was to Angola, reflecting the strong relationship shared between the two nations.
The impending MoU between the Namibian Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and the Angolan Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication was highlighted as a testament to the broad scope of potential collaboration. Theofelus pointed to satellite technology as a key area of interest for Namibia, congratulating Angola for setting an example in the SADC region and the continent.
She indicated plans to commence technical discussions around the MoU upon her return, particularly focusing on satellite technology and the establishment of a public data centre in Namibia. Theofelus also emphasized the importance of reducing roaming fees and charges between Angola and Namibia, drawing on a similar agreement with Botswana.
Businesspeople and communities along the border sometimes experience cross-border signal interference, which is costly. Theofelus noted that telecommunications is a crucial enabler of trade opportunities between Angola and Namibia, alongside existing and potential collaboration in fiber connectivity.
Angola's Minister of Telecommunications M¡rio Oliveira echoed the sentiment of cooperation, asserting that together, both countries can achieve significant development. He encouraged Namibia to utilize Angola's experience in satellites, regulation, and ICT.
Telecom Namibia's Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Shanapinda, indicated plans to restore traffic flow between Telecom Namibia and Angola Telecom in Ondjiva and expressed interest in improving connectivity to Rundu. He highlighted the desire to invest in redundant optic fiber between landing stations to secure coverage between Angola and Namibia.