Namibia ranks among slowest for Internet speed, experts weigh in

Image contributed by: Cirrus Capital

Namibia has been ranked among the world’s slowest for internet speed, placing 143rd out of 152 countries in the 2025 Speedtest Global Index by Ookla. The country also performs poorly in digital quality, e-security, and e-governance, according to Surfshark’s 2024 Digital Quality of Life Index.

Technology and economic experts say the ranking reveals long-standing issues in the country’s internet infrastructure, with concerns over limited competition in the sector.

Tannan Groenewald, Head of Data & Analytics at Cirrus Capital, says the country’s broadband struggles are largely due to geography and market dynamics.

“Namibia’s current operators have long struggled to provide quality broadband to rural areas due to low population density and the distance between localities,” Groenewald explained. “But there have always been concerns about the lack of competition.”

He added that allowing more players in the market, such as Starlink, could help reduce costs and improve access.

However, technology expert Nrupesh Soni believes the report paints an incomplete picture of Namibia’s internet speed.

“I feel that’s a flawed rating. Namibia actually has good mobile internet speeds, and most Namibians rely on mobile data rather than fixed broadband,” Soni said.

He added that Namibia’s geography makes it difficult to roll out fiber and high-speed fixed internet nationwide.

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While debates continue over the accuracy of global rankings, Namibia’s digital sector remains under pressure to improve affordability, access, and infrastructure.