Tech

Kenya looks up to Google’s Project Loon for better internet coverage

Published

6 years ago

June 27, 2018

Technology giant Google is looking to strike deals with Kenyan telecommunications operators to deliver mobile internet coverage to remote locations through a network of cost-efficient floating balloons. Google’s Project Loon, has set out on a global campaign to increase internet connectivity for millions of people living in rural poorly connected areas.

Kenya’s ICT Ministry has welcomed the move on the premise that an aerial network would cut costs and enhance internet usage across all segments of Kenya’s population. Principal secretary in the ICT Ministry Sammy Itemere says, “It is companies such as X [formerly Google X] that innovate and provide solutions that benefit our city. We welcome the use of high-altitude balloons to create an aerial wireless network that offers real benefits to consumers.”

Speaking at the opening of a workshop to sensitize stakeholders on the balloon technology, the PS said the balloon network can easily achieve 4G-LTE speeds and would help Kenya multiply ICT’s impact on the economy.

A 2017 report revealed that 67% of Kenyans have access to the internet, mainly using mobile devices, this is impressive compared to the continent’s 18% average.

The balloons enable the nearest telecommunications partner’s ground station to receive the wireless internet signals that are then transmitted across the network of balloons and then back down to users’ mobile phones on the ground. Each balloon covers up to 5000 square kilometers and runs on renewable energy.

Google has already have deployed 10 balloons for testing in Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, and Marsabit.

Project Loon has received unanimous applause worldwide for its role in providing internet to disaster-stricken areas. Google had previouly partnered with AT&T to provide internet coverage to Puerto Rico following the devastating Hurricane Maria. However, on the flipside, balloon crashes have occurred in nearly 10 countries, including Panama and the USA.

Related Topics:Google internet coverage Kenya project loon balloons

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Tech

7th Africa Tech Summit set to hold in Nairobi in February

Published

12 hours ago

December 13, 2024

Isaac Dachen

All is set for the seventh edition of Africa Tech Summit Nairobi, powered for the second consecutive year by Nigerian fintech, Raenest.

According to the organizers, the Summit which will take place on February 12-13, 2025, at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi, will connect over 2,000 industry leaders, corporates, investors and international delegations, with a special feature on a B2B summit, exhibition, and awards.

A statement announcing the upcoming Summit say it will feature four key track themes – Africa Money & DeFi Summit, Africa Climate Tech & Investment Summit, Africa Startup Summit, and the Africa Mobile & App Summit.

“The Africa Tech Summit will deliver a packed agenda of fireside chats, panel discussions, keynote addresses, and masterclass sessions, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and networking,” Andrew Fassnidge, founder of Africa Tech Summit, said in the statement.

“We’re delighted to welcome Raenest back as our headline partner for the seventh edition of ATS Nairobi.

“Our mission has always been to help ventures across the continent and beyond connect and scale, and Raenest’s commitment to empowering African businesses to manage global financial operations aligns perfectly with this,” said Fassnidge.

Tech

Huawei launches cloud service in Nigeria

Published

2 days ago

December 11, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Global technology company, Huawei, has launched its first African hyperscale local cloud service in Nigeria, making it the first international cloud provider to offer such services in the country.

The CEO of Huawei Nigeria, Chris Lu, who unveiled the new local cloud in Lagos on Wednesday, said it was powered by Tier 3+ data centres, providing ultra-fast services with a latency of just 15 milliseconds.

According to Lu, this will ensure that data storage and computing resources remain within Nigeria, benefiting local businesses and sectors, particularly fintech companies that require strict adherence to data protection laws.

At the launch event, themed “Leap Now With A Better Cloud,” Lu emphasised the company’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy.

He noted that the initiative was a significant milestone towards meeting the country’s data protection regulation, and alignment with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission’s objectives to limit cross-border data transfer and have data kept within the country.

“With disruptive technology, we can transform our daily lives, our industries, and our economy. Not knowing where your data is stored is terrifying,” Lu said.

“The Huawei local cloud ensures your data and that of your customers are safely protected. Our local cloud provides better latency, better services, and ensures data sovereignty for our customers.

“Huawei’s is offering enhanced data sovereignty, reduced latency, and bolstered support for local businesses.The service aims to support Nigerian startups, SMEs, and the broader tech ecosystem and aligns with Nigeria’s regulatory environment and digital transformation goals.”

Beyond cloud technology, Huawei has invested heavily in Africa’s tech ecosystem, forming partnerships with governments and private entities to drive digital transformation.