MTC announces discontinuation of standalone free sms services

Windhoek, June 10 — MTC has announced that, starting September 10, 2026, the company will discontinue its standalone free SMS service, previously provided upon recharging. This decision aligns with MTC’s strategy to enhance network efficiency and offer more value-driven communication solutions, reflecting the growing preference for data-based messaging platforms like WhatsApp and email. Tim Ekandjo, Chief Marketing, Communication, and Sustainability Officer, emphasized that the shift in consumer communication needs, particularly the widespread adoption of Over-The-Top (OTT) applications, has made this change necessary. While free SMS will no longer be available as a standalone service, SMS allocations will remain part of MTC’s popular bundles and postpaid plans, ensuring customers still have access to these services. This move marks the end of an era for the complimentary SMS service introduced in the early 2000s, as MTC adapts to the evolution of communication technology.