Namibia’s first private 5G network takes shape

Vertiv has announced its role in powering Namibia’s first private mobile network based on LTE and 5G technologies for Paratus, a pan-African telecommunications and network services provider

The deployment represents a major development in Namibia’s digital transformation journey, supporting Paratus Namibia’s transition from a regional connectivity company into a full-service mobile telecommunications operator.

To support the rollout, Paratus Namibia implemented new data centre infrastructure featuring Vertiv power and cooling technologies, alongside indoor and outdoor DC power systems designed to support radio equipment across its network.

The project involved several complex requirements, including converting a compact storage area into a fully operational telecom data centre, implementing modular uninterruptible power supply (UPS) capacity with future scalability, and ensuring reliable redundancy across power and cooling systems. These requirements were further intensified by strict timelines linked to the launch of Paratus Namibia’s mobile services.

As part of the deployment, Vertiv supplied a range of solutions, including cooling systems, modular UPS units equipped with lithium-ion batteries, rack power distribution units, and integrated AC inverter and DC rectifier power systems for both indoor and outdoor locations.

Paratus Namibia also worked with ISF ICT Infrastructure, a long-standing Vertiv partner in southern Africa, which managed the commissioning process and UPS system layout to ensure reliable network performance.

Vertiv and ISF ICT Infrastructure collaborated closely to overcome challenges related to global lithium battery supply shortages while maintaining project timelines. The teams ensured continuity by providing interim Vertiv backup loan batteries as a contingency measure in case of shipment delays. This proactive planning, combined with technical expertise and supply chain coordination, contributed to the successful delivery of the project.

Building a resilient digital network

The Paratus Namibia network now provides a complete mobile ecosystem featuring voice over LTE (VoLTE), Wi-Fi calling, advanced LTE and 5G services, alongside fibre and Sky-Fi wireless connectivity solutions.

The newly developed data centre supports mobile, residential, and enterprise services through a scalable and highly available infrastructure environment. Reliability and continuous operation were key priorities during the design process, with N+1 redundancy, real-time monitoring, and advanced power and cooling systems incorporated to minimise service interruptions.

These resilient infrastructure solutions support Paratus Namibia’s strategy to expand its market presence while responding to increasing demand for digital services across Namibia and the wider region.

Paratus Group’s chief technical officer, Gert Duvenhage, said, “Our vision has always been to build our own infrastructure as the foundation for long-term growth. With Vertiv and ISF ICT Infrastructure, organisations where we have long-standing trust, we were able to overcome space constraints, aggressive timelines and complex technical requirements to roll out scalable, redundant, market-leading solutions, backed with added technical capabilities.”

“The execution of this project was extremely smooth - when something works and there are no issues, it almost disappears from your radar - which is exactly how it should be.”

Supporting Namibia’s digital future

Vertiv’s portfolio of infrastructure technologies enabled Paratus Namibia to establish the country’s first private LTE and 5G mobile network. The deployment strengthens the company’s position within Namibia’s telecommunications sector while creating a platform for future digital development.

“With this network now operational, Paratus Namibia solidifies its role in shaping the country’s telecommunications landscape,” added Gary Chomse, Vertiv’s regional director for Southern and Central Africa. “The deployment not only boosts connectivity options for local users but also lays a foundation for future digital innovation and continued growth across the region. Vertiv is proud to support Paratus Namibia in bringing the country’s first private LTE and 5G mobile network to life.”