Solution integrator Dizengoff Ghana Limited has chosen Israeli company Gilat Satellite Networks to implement a turnkey solution that will deliver broadband and cellular services via satellite throughout rural Ghana
Gilat it will deploy its SkyEdge II-c hub, which is capable of supporting multiple applications, the company said. Gilat’s Gemini VSATs will deliver broadband services to schools, while its Capricorn VSATs, in conjunction with its solar-powered CellEdge small cells, will extend cellular service for several leading mobile network operators in Ghana.
Gilat’s Ezra Olman said providing satellite form of communication will bode well for the rural dwellers in target parts of Ghana where Internet broadband access will be made available. He added that the government of Ghana is interested in this initiative as part of its efforts to bridge the digital divide by offering nationwide connectivity.
The project will deliver 2G cellular services to rural areas in Ghana and broadband Internet to 100 schools. Overall, 25 cellular sites have been planned with 11 in the first phase, Gilat said in a statement.
According to Gilat, with its new network, Dizengoff Ghana will be able to meet the rural communications requirements of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) as set forth by the Ghana government.
“The Ghana deal is an example of the kind of national infrastructure projects that Gilat is perfectly suited for,” commented Gilat global accounts and telecom services vice-president Michal Aharonov. “Not only can we provide a comprehensive VSAT end-to-end solution, we also have vast experience in turnkey deployments and integration with MNO core networks, to extend coverage to rural areas.”
Dizengoff Ghana, which has been operating in Ghana since 1957, will be the primary integrator responsible for the deployment of the infrastructure for the project.
