A recent announcement made at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference has unveiled an ambitious joint venture aimed at revolutionising connectivity across Africa
The partnership involves Curvalux, United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa), and Pegasus Capital Advisors, signifying a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) focussing on telecommunications and renewable energy.
The core objective of this collaboration is the deployment of sustainable, solar-powered broadband technologies throughout Africa, offering a transformative boost to millions through improved connectivity.
Curvalux, known for its innovative solar-powered fixed wireless access (FWA) broadband technologies, joins forces with UCLG Africa, a confederation encompassing 16,000 African townships and cities, bringing together expertise and local reach.
The alliance, including Pegasus Capital Advisors, a globally recognised equity fund manager with accreditation from the Green Climate Fund, aspires to establish the necessary FWA technology infrastructure. This infrastructure aims to deliver sustainable high-speed broadband services to an estimated 350 million African citizens who presently lack access to reliable connectivity, which significantly impacts their lives.
Under the terms, Curvalux is set to supply fixed wireless equipment, backhaul, power systems, site infrastructure, and comprehensive technical and business training. UCLG Africa, leveraging its local expertise, will aid in navigating due diligence, implementation, and regulatory obstacles, accelerating the deployment of this initiative by identifying communities for rapid integration.
Pegasus Capital Advisors plans to provide essential funding and financing, ensuring the realisation of reliable, fully solar-powered wireless internet connectivity for households, businesses, schools, hospitals, and public services across the continent.
Though a specific timeline hasn’t been outlined, the collaborative effort is positioned to tackle the substantial internet service gap prevalent in Africa. This initiative holds the promise of unlocking abundant opportunities in remote work, education, healthcare, and economic development, ultimately bridging the digital divide in the region.
