MTC connects Kries settlement
RESIDENTS of Kries settlement in the Gibeon Constituency on Monday came out in numbers to the commissioning of a network tower, through the MTC’s 081Every1 campaign which aims to footprint a 100 percent connectivity nationwide.
Kries’ network tower falls part of 41 towers tipped for the Hardap region and over 500 network towers nationwide that the campaign aims to roll out.
The 2004-declared-settlement with just below 2000 people have in the past experienced network troubles, with many citing that they couldn’t connect with family members, report crime or call for help. The commissioning of the network tower now signaled the genesis of a new era which most, especially the young will benefit greatly.
Gibeon Constituency councilor Jeremia Van-Neel praised the giant mobile telecommunication company MTC for finally packing away the days of walking to nearby towns for connectivity.
“I thank the settlement and regional leadership for the support to date.
It is not easy when the electorate demands for development, and it is up to the elected councilor to meet the needs of the inhabitants. That is our responsibility and today MTC has come through.
We see that we are now part of the 081Every1 family,” said a jovial Van-Neel when addressing the community at the commissioning of the tower that is built in the heart of the settlement.
The governor of the Hardap region Esme Isaack echoed the same sentiments saying the commissioning of the tower is joyous, yet historic.
“This constituency in my region has in the past enjoyed bad network. Today, it proves that our cry for development did not fall on deaf ears. The challenge of network infrastructure is not unique in the region, but I’m pleased that MTC is responding to the call of the Harambee Prosperity Plan to make sure that no one is left out,” said Isaack.
Cutting the ribbon to switch on the tower was minister of Information and Communication Technology Stanley Simataa, who applauded the Kries residents for their patience in waiting for development.
“The days when we had to climb trees and walk to mountains in search for network are gone. Now you feel that you are part of the Namibian house.
Thank you MTC,” said the minister.
“What is happening here is not a mistake, but it is by design. The government is delivering to its promises and it will continue to deliver. Many were doubting when we started planning for this but here we are today. This just explains that development is a journey,” said Simataa adding that two other sites in the constituency were set to go live the same day.
According to MTC’s Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer, Tim Ekandjo, this development is an inclusive measure that forms part of the progressive national network project (081Every1), which the company launched in 2017 to bring about hundred percent population network coverage.