Tech

MTN partners LEO Satellites to extend connectivity to remote regions in Africa

Published

1 month ago

November 27, 2024

Africa’s biggest mobile operator, MTN, has entered inti partnerships with low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite providers to bring internet connection to rural and remote customers in the continent.

Group CEO of MTN, Ralph Mupita, who made this known, said it is a significant step given that these regions frequently face challenges with limited or no broadband and fiber connectivity.

“To keep customers and businesses connected at all times, we’re going to have to embrace satellite as an additional technology form,” Mupita said in a media call.

‘For MTN, this initiative is part of a larger strategy to connect underserved regions and strengthen its presence across the continent.

“The company is already conducting pilot projects in key service areas as part of its testing phase,” he added.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Independent Communications Authority is preparing licenses and regulations for LEO satellite operators to ensure fairness and compliance, particularly for local players.

“This push into LEO satellite technology follows closely on the heels of MTN’s groundbreaking 5.5G trials, the first of their kind in Africa,” he said.

LEO satellites, which orbit closer to Earth than traditional satellites, provide faster speeds and lower latency. For remote communities, this could translate to reliable internet access at a fraction of the cost typically associated with terrestrial infrastructure.

LEO satellites provide high-speed internet even in areas where terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure such as fibre and mobile broadband is difficult and expensive to deploy.

If successful, this satellite initiative could establish MTN as a leader in bridging Africa’s digital divide, while also enhancing its financial performance.

Related Topics:Africa Connectivity Featured LEO MTN

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Tech

Again, Starlink raises prices of its services in Nigeria

Published

4 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Elon Musk’s satellite internet service provider, Starlink, has again jacked up the prices of its services in Nigeria after an earlier increase caused uproar among customers.

The service provider, in a statement released on Friday, informed its Nigerian customers that it would raise its monthly subscription prices, with the new rates set to take effect on January 27, 2025.

Under the new pricing regime, the lowest subscription tier will increase significantly from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000 per month, while mobile global roaming service will now cost ₦717,000 monthly.

The company stated that new subscribers will immediately pay the adjusted prices while existing customers will see the changes reflected in their upcoming bills.

In an email sent to users, Starlink said:

“To continue enhancing the Starlink network and provide reliable, high-quality service across Nigeria, we are adjusting our monthly subscription prices.

“These changes are part of our ongoing commitment to investing in the infrastructure needed to improve your experience with Starlink.”

This is the second time Starlink has attempted a price hike in Nigeria. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has rejected its previous increase in October on the grounds that the company had not sought the necessary regulatory approval.

However, insiders believe the NCC is set to approve an increase in the first quarter of 2025, which gives credence to insinuations that Starlink may have gotten an approval for the price increments.

Tech

Safaricom Ethiopia launches 4G network in Gambella

Published

2 days ago

December 27, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Ethiopia’s second largest telecom provider, Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia P.L.C., has announced the official launching of its 4G network services in Gambella and other surrounding areas.

The launching of the 4G network in the region, according to Safaricom Ethiopia CEO, Wim Vanhelleputte, highlighted the significant impact that enhanced telecommunications infrastructure could have on the region’s social and economic progress.

“In line with our commitment to digital education, Safaricom Ethiopia donated 20 laptops and 4 routers, including six months of free internet, to two high schools in Gambella City, supporting digital literacy and educational opportunities for local students,” Vanhelleputte stated.

Vanhelleputte reaffirmed Safaricom Ethiopia’s commitment to expanding its reach and ensuring that more regions gain access to reliable and high-speed internet.

“The introduction of the 4G network in Gambella is designed to deliver significant advantages to the local community,” he said .

“Enhanced connectivity will open doors to better access to information, education, and healthcare services. Additionally, it will create new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and development within the region.

“Safaricom Ethiopia’s move into Gambella aligns with its broader strategy to extend 4G coverage to more areas, furthering its mission of fostering nationwide connectivity,” the CEO added.

Alemitu Oumud, President of the Gambella Region who also spoke at the event, stated that, enhanced infrastructure is driving positive social and economic growth in our region.

“We commend Safaricom Ethiopia for its contributions to job creation, improving connectivity, and making Gambella a more attractive destination for investment,” Oumud said.

He stressed the potential of the new 4G network to drive business activities, attract investments, and foster entrepreneurship in the region.