10 Aug 2026

Digital transformation and ICT present opportunities to diversify beyond traditional natural-resource sectors, create employment, promote innovation and improve the lives of citizens.

Delivering remarks at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on ICT cooperation between Botswana and Namibia, in Kasane recently, the Minister of Communications and Innovation, Mr David Tshere, said the MoU was a catalyst for innovation, investment, knowledge exchange, digital transformation and economic diversification.

The document provides a framework for cooperation in areas including broadband and digital infrastructure, cyber security, digital skills, innovation and research, emerging technologies, policy and regulatory cooperation, and capacity building.

“These areas provide a strong foundation for Botswana and Namibia to share knowledge and expertise, develop joint initiatives and jointly develop solutions that can serve not only our two countries but the wider SADC region,” said Mr Tshere.

He explained that it was essential that citizens of Botswana and Namibia should have affordable and reliable connectivity, secure digital services, greater economic opportunities and inclusive access to the benefits of the digital economy.

Through the MoU, Botswana and Namibia can promote joint research, exchanges between innovators and start-ups, technology transfer and opportunities for businesses to access each other’s markets.

Mr Tshere pointed out that digital transformation could not succeed through infrastructure alone in the absence of appropriate regulation, cyber security and digital trust.

He shared that Botswana continued to invest in ICT infrastructure as a foundation for economic and social transformation to ensure that connectivity translated into economic opportunity, better public services, innovation and inclusive participation in the digital economy.

Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Ms Emma Theofelus, stated that as the implementation of the MoU progressed, the focus remained on delivering measurable outcomes through enhanced regional connectivity, resilient digital infrastructure, strengthened cybersecurity, expanded digital services, and deeper economic integration.

She said the MoU was subsequent to political directives issued by the presidents of the two countries during the second session of the Namibia Botswana Bi- National Commission held in Windhoek, Namibia last year October.

Ms Theofelus stated that a significant milestone demonstrating the practical value of the partnership was the successful completion of MTC’s fibre network from Gobabis to the Buitepos border, where it was now directly interconnected with the BoFiNet network at Charles Hill.

“This represents the first direct cross-border fibre connection between the two operators and strengthens regional connectivity while creating new opportunities for wholesale carrier services, digital trade, and regional telecommunications integration,” said Ms Theofelus.

A dedicated working committee will be established to coordinate and oversee the effective implementation of the MOU and ensure that the two nation’s shared commitments translate into tangible results for the citizens of both countries. ENDS