Commerce

Galaxy Backbone (GBB) has announced the successful implementation of its advanced fibre optic network across Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin

This achievement, a key milestone under Phase II of the National Information and Communication Technology Infrastructure Backbone (NICTIB) project, highlights GBB’s dedication to enhancing connectivity and advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Ibrahim A Adeyanju, managing director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone, remarked, “The expansion of our fibre optic network to Lagos, Ibadan and Ilorin is a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy. This advanced infrastructure empowers us to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions that serve the needs of both the public and private sectors.”

Connecting Nigeria seamlessly 

With an extensive optical fibre backbone now spanning over 5,000 kms and connecting 27 state capitals, GBB strengthens its role as Nigeria’s digital backbone. This development integrates the nation’s six geopolitical zones, promoting digital inclusion, driving economic progress, and reinforcing GBB’s position as a leader in the digital space.

The newly established Abuja-to-Lagos route, covering cities like Minna, Bida, Mokwa, Ilorin, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibadan, and Lagos, is a significant enhancement to network reliability. This closed network ring connects Lagos, Nigeria’s economic center, to Abuja, the capital city, ensuring service redundancy and reducing downtime for a superior user experience.

:“This expansion not only supports the government’s digital economy agenda but also sets the stage for meaningful collaboration with private sector organizations seeking to leverage our infrastructure. Together, we can unlock innovation and drive sustainable development across diverse sectors,” stated Adeyanju. 

By delivering secure, high-speed connectivity, Galaxy Backbone empowers businesses and government institutions alike. Its expansion into Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin solidifies its role in Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and its vision for a digitally inclusive future.

Mastercard Strive, Arifu, and MTN Group support small businesses in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda with digital tools, skills, and financial access. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Mastercard Strive has teamed up with Arifu and MTN Group to empower nearly one million small businesses in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda

The partnership focuses on digitizing operations, promoting the adoption of digital financial services, and connecting businesses to digital marketplaces through the MoMo Coach chatbot. This initiative equips small business owners with essential digital skills, enabling them to embrace digital tools, secure funding, and effectively participate in online marketplaces.

The MoMo Coach solution, powered by Arifu’s Grasp Platform, delivers micro-learning experiences through mobile messaging. Accessible on multiple platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, SMS, and MoMo, it offers business owners and entrepreneurs the flexibility to access practical advice and actionable strategies for growth in the digital economy.

Since its launch in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda, the program has reached over 930,000 MTN customers, merchants, and agents. More than 75,000 small business owners have taken advantage of free digital courses, with over 45,000 actively engaging with MoMo Coach. Available courses, such as “How to Start Your Business,” “Money Management,” and “Grow and Secure Your Business,” address common challenges like affordability and access to relevant knowledge. These courses are tailored to the needs of MoMo merchants and agents, equipping small business owners with tools to overcome obstacles and thrive in the digital landscape.

Bayobab Group advances Africa's connectivity with innovative solutions, empowering businesses and fostering economic growth across the continent. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Bayobab Group has cemented its position as a leader in connectivity, earning the prestigious title of Best Wholesale Operator at the 2024 World Communication Awards

This recognition highlights the organisation’s innovative approach and commitment to delivering seamless, secure, and scalable connectivity across Africa and beyond.

Over the past 18 months, Bayobab has transitioned from a regional leader to Africa’s foremost wholesale operator, inspired by the iconic baobab tree's strength and resilience. The company’s expansive network has become a vital enabler for enterprises, operators, and governments seeking reliable connectivity to drive progress and enhance digital inclusion.

Driving innovation through strategic partnerships

As a continental gateway for data traffic, Bayobab connects 5.6 billion global mobile subscribers and nearly 300 million African users. By leveraging an open-access model and operating through Bayobab Fibre and Bayobab Communication Platforms, the organisation provides a robust ecosystem for innovation and growth.

Significant advancements in the past year include expanding its fibre network to 114,000 kilometers, ensuring high-speed, reliable connectivity across underserved areas. Collaborations with global technology leaders such as Meta, Google, and Microsoft have brought advanced solutions like WhatsApp Business Messaging and international fibre connectivity to clients. Tailored solutions have also been developed to address unique challenges, ensuring customer-specific network and communication needs are met.

Key partnerships have been instrumental in achieving these milestones. Collaborations like the East2West fibre project with Africa50 and Smart Africa have facilitated seamless global market access for landlocked countries, while the 2Africa subsea cable landings deliver high-capacity bandwidth to enhance operations and service delivery.

Bayobab’s commitment to integrating cybersecurity, sustainability, and future-ready infrastructure ensures that customers remain competitive in an evolving digital landscape. This award underscores the organisation’s dedication to delivering innovative connectivity solutions that empower businesses, foster economic growth, and transform communities across Africa and the world.

MTN South Africa launches Digital Experience Centre, redefining connectivity with immersive technology and customer-focused experiences. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

MTN South Africa has unveiled its cutting-edge Digital Experience Centre in Johannesburg's Morningside, setting a new standard for retail spaces focused on digital communications and connectivity

This innovative Centre offers an immersive and interactive experience, allowing visitors to explore the future of telecommunications through hands-on engagement with advanced technology.

According to Mmenyana Ranku, general manager of the Branded Retail Channel at MTN South Africa, the Centre addresses the growing need for consumers to understand the full potential of their mobile devices and the technology that powers modern communication. “The MTN Digital Experience Centre embodies our commitment to staying ahead of global trends while meeting the evolving needs of our customers.”

“We believe that to remain relevant, we must continuously adapt and create experiences that reflect how technology is becoming an essential part of everyday life. The Centre redefines the traditional retail model by integrating cutting-edge technology into meaningful, hands-on interactions. Every aspect is designed to inspire exploration, delivering a personalised journey with immersive product demonstrations and tailored recommendations,” Ranku added.

MTN aims to make technology accessible and intuitive, helping customers see how it can enhance their lives. “Aligned with MTN’s vision for the future, the Centre highlights the latest innovations, keeping customers connected to what’s new and relevant. It also tells the story of our partnerships—demonstrating how the products and services we offer empower people and enrich their digital experiences,” remarked Ranku.

Immersive, future-focused experiences

The Centre places heavy emphasis on interactivity, encouraging customers to explore devices and services at their own pace through self-service kiosks. Its experiential areas truly showcase MTN’s technological strengths. The Connected Home Area demonstrates how MTN’s 5G technology can power smart home devices, from security systems to automated lighting and kitchen appliances. The six interconnected zones in this area highlight the seamless integration of various devices, creating an ecosystem designed to enhance everyday living.

Empowering businesses

MTN’s Digital Experience Centre also provides businesses with an overview of services aimed at boosting productivity and connectivity:

• Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC): MTN’s UCC suite supports advanced voice, video conferencing, messaging, file sharing, and collaboration tools across platforms and devices.
• Cloud Services: From hosting applications to offering cloud backup and recovery, MTN’s cloud solutions safeguard business data and ensure continuity in case of cyber threats or disruptions.
• Internet of Things (IoT): MTN’s IoT services allow businesses to monitor and manage IoT devices in real-time, enhancing operational efficiency.
• MTN Private Networks: Businesses benefit from secure, dedicated networks that ensure better performance and reliability.
• Managed Security Services: MTN’s Managed Security suite offers businesses protection against cyber threats, with advanced monitoring and real-time defense.

Showcasing cutting-edge devices and gaming

The Handset Manufacturers Walk features store-in-store displays from top brands such as Apple, OPPO, Vivo, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, and Honor, each offering pre- and post-sales support. Visitors can experience MTN’s network capabilities through PS5 gaming stations in the Gaming Area, playing popular games like Fortnite and FIFA. Through a partnership with Mettlestate, MTN hosts regular gaming tournaments where customers can compete for prizes.

The Centre also includes a Talk Studio for small events, featuring an intelligent screen that displays AI-generated content. This space gives visitors a glimpse into the future of AI in communications. Additionally, a high-tech boardroom is available for client meetings, providing an opportunity to explore MTN’s featured services and solutions.

“The MTN Experience Centre is more than just a store—it’s a celebration of mobile technology and a window into the future of connectivity,” concludes Ranku. “It embodies our commitment to pushing boundaries and offering customers an unmatched experience where technology truly comes to life.”