Namibia is bridging the digital divide between urban and underserved communities by providing laptop computers and enhancing internet access in the country's rural southern regions.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is driving the exercise, with the latest initiative seeing libraries in the Gochas and Koёs region benefit.
Internet speeds at the facilities have been increased to 50 megabits per second.
CRAN believes that the donation and renovations will provide communities, particularly learners and young people, with the digital skills required for education, creativity, future employment, and involvement in digital transformation.
Furthermore, it aligns with CRAN's development plan, which prioritises digital empowerment for underprivileged groups in rural and remote locations.
By capacitating rural libraries with modern ICT resources, CRAN aims to expand digital access in underserved areas and reinforce a commitment to digital inclusivity.
"Access to technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity," said Priscilla Tjiroze, CRAN acting regional director of Kharas.
"By equipping rural libraries with modern ICT tools, the Authority is investing in the future of education and the development of the community."
The official said this was also an investment in advancing digital literacy and community empowerment. "It ensures that learners, youth, and entire communities are not left behind in the digital era."
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