Tech

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

Published

5 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

Verve partners Adidas for Africa’s biggest fitness series, VerveLife 6.0

Published

3 hours ago

October 4, 2023

Akanimoh Etim

Africa’s leading domestic payment cards and tokens brand, Verve has entered into a partnership with global sportswear giant, Adidas for the sixth edition of the continent’s biggest fitness series, VerveLife 6.0.

Making the announcement on the partnership on Wednesday, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Communications at Interswitch Group, said the VerveLife’s series would focus on promoting fitness, healthy living, and wellness.

“We are greatly delighted to welcome Adidas on board as one of our partners for VerveLife 6.0.

“Year upon year, we continue to successfully deliver extraordinary experiences that transcend the expectations of fitness enthusiasts in these climes, with an unprecedented approach incorporating fitness, fun and healthy food, all intertwined in a format that leaves participants demanding more.

“In 2023, we are raising the bar even higher, and working with a globally renowned and credible partner like Adidas gives even more fillip to our resolve, as we jointly advocate for more active and healthier lifestyles for African consumers,” she said.

The VerveLife fitness platform, which has been on from 2018, features exciting high-intensity workout sessions and dance routines led by renowned fitness experts and dance instructors from across Africa.

It also includes fitness challenges and immersive masterclasses on nutrition, mental wellness, and other related areas.

Tech

Nigerian crypto startup, KoinWa launches Web3 education platform for varsity students

Published

1 day ago

October 3, 2023

Akanimoh Etim

Nigerian cryptocurrency startup, KoinWa has announced launching a Web3 education platform, EduBlok, with the aim of empowering university students with relevant and beneficial skills.

The CEO of the crypto company, Hakeem Disu, who made the announcement, said the new platform was the firm’s way of contributing to the educational development of Nigerian students through its education arm.

“EduBlok provides users with blockchain education and training, and helps other educational institutions design blockchain and artificial intelligence curricula,” Disu said.

Disu, who is both a trained teacher and author of the e-book “How blockchain is solving real life African problems,” said Edublok, which is funded by KoinWa, had already impacted over 10,000 beneficiaries in university-underserved communities, as well as given out more than 15,000 e-books.

“Blockchain been the next big thing in the technology space, but is not included in the education curriculum of Nigeria,” Disu said.

“EduBlok is looking to solve this problem by designing the academic curriculum and textbooks, and also providing blockchain education and entrepreneurship skills,” he said.