Paratus Namibia on Tuesday evening introduced the latest innovations in mobile connectivity, showcasing how Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) are set to transform the way Namibians communicate.
The network is built entirely on 4G LTE, making Paratus the first operator in the country to exclusively deploy a network designed for the latest generation of smartphones and digital lifestyles. The launch, themed "Reflect. Celebrate. Power Your Next," was attended by the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Inamutila Theofelus.
The project constitutes a N$600 million investment and delivers coverage to 50 major towns and 80 communities in Namibia.
Speaking at the launch, Paratus Namibia managing director Andrew Hall explained that VoLTE technology offers twice the connectivity rate than traditional networks, delivering crystal-clear voice calls enhanced by built-in noise cancellation features. This ensures users experience sharper, interruption-free conversations.
Building on that, Paratus also announced the rollout of VoWiFi, a breakthrough feature that allows customers to make calls from anywhere in the world using Wi-Fi connectivity.
"Digital transformation is at the heart of everything we do. What began during the Covid-19 era as a necessity enabling customers to sign up from home has matured into a fully digital way of engaging with Paratus. With Cerillion as our digital stack partner and Nokia as our mobile technology partner, we have unified our systems into one platform and built a modern, 4G-only network with no legacy 2G or 3G," Hall said.
He added the achievement was made possible by the dedication of the Paratus team, who worked tirelessly to bring the project to life.
Theofelus applauded the Paratus Group for its role in advancing the country's digital transformation, as the company celebrated its 20th anniversary.
She highlighted how technology has been one of the three key global drivers of progress over the past two decades, alongside medicine and life sciences, and energy and sustainability.
"In the last 20 years, significant achievements include the advancement of artificial intelligence, the development of reusable rockets and the commercialisation of space travel, breakthroughs in 3D printing for organs and medicine, and the continued evolution of mobile technology and the internet," the minister said.
Theofelus noted that renewable energy, medical treatments, and digital innovations have transformed societies worldwide, with technology at the centre of this global shift.
She commended Paratus for positioning itself as a strong Namibian-owned company that has expanded across the African continent while remaining committed to driving Namibia's digital future.
"Paratus has grown in strength and strides in the last 20 years, not only in Namibia but across the African continent. That is why we at the Ministry of ICT wish to congratulate Paratus on its 20th anniversary and for launching a mobile network, marking a significant step in not only Paratus' journey but Namibia's digital journey," said Theofelus.
She added the launch of Paratus' mobile network is expected to enhance competition in Namibia's telecommunications sector and provide consumers with more choices, as the company adds mobile services to its existing internet and ICT infrastructure offerings.