Cyber threats rise 57% despite ICT sector growth

Cyber threat incidents in Namibia rose by 57% in the second quarter of 2026, even as telecommunications companies invested N$243 million to expand digital networks and the information and communication technology sector recorded 12% revenue growth. ‘

This is according to the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran).

The latest Cran Quarterly Statistics Bulletin, covering the period from April to June 2026, shows that while the communications sector continued to expand through higher internet use, investment and employment as well as cyber security remains a growing concern.

According to the report, data from the Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team (NAM-CSIRT) indicate that cyber vulnerabilities increased by 40% during the quarter, while cyber threat events rose by 57%. The regulatory authority said the increase was mainly linked to sinkhole-related detections and exposure to vulnerable network services. Despite rising cyber risks, the ICT sector posted solid growth during the quarter.

Industry revenue increased by 12%, while sector costs rose by 9%, indicating improved performance.

Telecommunications companies invested approximately N$243 million in network expansion and infrastructure development.

Employment in the sector also increased by 3%, bringing the total number of employees to about
2 210 by the end of June. Demand for internet services also remained strong. Active mobile SIM card subscriptions rose by 2% to about 2.79 million in the quarter.

Mobile broadband subscriptions also grew by 2%, while fixed broadband subscriptions increased by 1%. The report notes that fibre internet continued to expand as consumers and businesses gradually moved away from older technologies such as ADSL.

Mobile data consumption increased by 11% compared to the previous quarter, reflecting growing demand for online services.

Among social media platforms, TikTok recorded the highest increase in data usage at 21%, followed by YouTube at 15% and WhatsApp at 5%. Cran executive for communication and consumer relations Mufaro Nesongano said the figures reflect Namibia’s continued shift towards digital services.

“The second quarter statistics underscore Namibia’s continued progress towards greater digital inclusion and connectivity.

“Growth in broadband subscriptions, mobile data consumption and sector revenue demonstrates increasing reliance on digital services by consumers and businesses alike,” he said.

The report also recorded mixed performance in other parts of the communications sector.

Pay television subscriptions increased by 6% to more than
147 000 subscribers during the quarter. However, broadcasting revenue declined by 6%, mainly due to a 57% drop in advertising revenue.

The postal sector continued to experience lower demand for traditional services.

Occupied post boxes declined by 22%, while private bag occupancy fell by 29%, although postal operating revenue remained stable.

Nesongano said the latest figures show that, while the communications sector continues to grow, cyber security must remain a priority.

“While the statistics point to encouraging growth across much of the communications sector, they also emphasise the importance of strengthening cyber resilience and adapting to changing consumer behaviour. Cran remains committed to fostering a secure, innovative and inclusive communications environment that supports Namibia’s digital transformation agenda,” he said.

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na

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