Rössing Uranium expands connectivity with new LTE towers

Rössing Uranium has rolled out four private Long-Term Evolution LTE towers at its mining site, significantly enhancing connectivity across its decades-old open pit and nearby operational zones

Delivered in collaboration with MTC, the deployment represents a key milestone in the company’s digital transformation strategy, enabling the adoption of advanced technologies that support modern smart mining practices.

The LTE rollout involved an investment of N$3.7 million for the towers, forming part of a wider infrastructure upgrade programme valued at more than N$10 million.

During the commissioning event held at the open pit, Managing Director Johan Coetzee underlined the importance of reliable communication in mining operations.

“Every truck we dispatch, every drill reading we analyse, and every safety alert we rely on depends on strong, uninterrupted communication. Without it, we are not just inconvenienced, we are exposed. Reliable connectivity gives us full visibility across operations,” he said.

He further emphasised that safety remains paramount in the constantly changing open pit environment. “Conditions can change instantly; slopes shift and machinery is constantly in motion. In those moments, communication is vital. A robust network allows real-time monitoring, rapid response, and ultimately helps protect lives. Sometimes, seconds make all the difference.”

Coetzee also pointed to the role of connectivity in boosting operational efficiency, noting that systems such as fleet management, GPS tracking and automated dispatch rely heavily on stable network performance.

“With this upgraded infrastructure, we are reducing uncertainty and enabling smoother operations, improved coordination, and stronger overall performance,” he noted.

Dr Licky Erastus, Managing Director of MTC, highlighted the wider impact of the initiative, stating; “This project is about improving how people connect and work on the ground. It is an enabler of safer, smarter, and more efficient mining operations. By bringing reliable, high-performance communication into complex industrial environments, we are empowering teams with the tools they need to make better decisions in real time and operate with greater confidence.”

As Rössing Uranium continues to upgrade its operations, enhanced connectivity is expected to remain central to driving safer, more efficient and technologically advanced mining performance.