Intelsat has introduced a new satellite-based cellular backhaul service platform in Lagos, Nigeria, to expand its services and enhance mobile connectivity in Nigeria and surrounding West African nations. The platform at the Open Access Data Centre (WIOCC) is a significant step toward improving connectivity infrastructure across Nigeria and Africa. This move addresses the persistent challenge of connecting rural and remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure struggles to reach.
Despite recent advancements in connectivity, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to face significant challenges with mobile broadband coverage. The region has the most significant gaps in usage and coverage at 59% and 15%, respectively. Nearly half of the 400 million people worldwide without mobile broadband live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Expanding mobile networks in rural areas has proven difficult due to the high costs, slow deployment of traditional infrastructure, and limited returns on investment.
The new service, Intelsat CellBackhaul Nigeria, offers a fully managed cellular backhaul solution designed to support mobile network operators (MNOs) and internet service providers (ISPs) in Nigeria and West Africa. Additionally, using Intelsat’s satellite and terrestrial networks will enable faster, more cost-efficient network expansion. This platform joins others across Africa, delivering services to millions of people and supporting thousands of cell towers.
Rhys Morgan, RVP for EMEA at Intelsat, stated, “This is a significant achievement for Intelsat, Nigeria, and West Africa, offering innovative solutions for the region. Satellite technology is crucial in bridging the digital divide, especially for unconnected populations in rural and remote areas where satellite backhaul provides fast, reliable, and cost-effective connectivity.”
Intelsat’s efforts in West Africa are part of a broader strategy to increase connectivity across the continent. Intelsat is also set to boost economic participation and digital inclusion in the region by tapping into the growing demand for mobile data services.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/10/17/intelsat-introduces-satellite-backhaul-service-to-boost-connectivity-in-nigeria-and-west-africa/
