Tech

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

Published

2 weeks 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

Huawei launches cloud service in Nigeria

Published

18 hours 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.

Tech

SunCulture partners Turaco to empower Kenyan farmers with affordable climate insurance

Published

2 days ago

December 10, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Kenyan solar-powered irrigation solutions startup, SunCulture, has joined forces with leading mass-market insurtech company, Turaco, to launch a platform called “SunCulture Protect”, aimed at providing enhanced protection to small holder farmers using SunCulture’s pay-as-you-go (PAYG) devices.

According to Samir Ibrahim, the CEO of SunCulture, the partnership between two leading Kenyan tech companies will address the urgent need for risk mitigation tools, such as insurance, for the most vulnerable populations, enabling and expanding access to healthcare.

“As the impact from climate change escalates, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are expected to rise, negatively affecting health outcomes and pushing millions of Africans into poverty,” Ibrahim said.

“At SunCulture, our mission has always been to help small holder farmers grow more food and improve their livelihoods.

“Partnering with Turaco allows us to extend our commitment by not only providing sustainable energy solutions but also offering financial security and peace of mind to our customers and their families,” he said.

He also stated that SunCulture Protect offers essential health and life coverage, safeguarding customers and their families against unforeseen medical expenses and risks that are exacerbated by extreme weather events.

Ted Pantone, CEO of Turaco, who also commented on the partnership, said he believed affordable insurance should be accessible to everyone, especially those that are the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

“Our partnership with SunCulture enables us to provide essential coverage that not only protects livelihoods but also fosters long-term resilience among small holder farmers,” he said.