CMC Networks launches CMC Fusion, a platform enabling seamless network management across 51 African and 11 Middle Eastern countries. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

CMC Networks, a global Tier 1 service provider, has launched its CMC Fusion networking platform, extending its reach to 51 countries in Africa and 11 in the Middle East

This platform allows carriers, service providers, and enterprises to provision and manage network services across these regions from any location, making it easier for businesses to expand in dynamic markets.

CMC Fusion is a cloud-based solution that integrates various network services and analytics into a unified portal and marketplace. This includes MPLS, Carrier Ethernet, Dedicated Internet Access (DIA), multi-cloud connect, SD-WAN, service monitoring, assurance, security, and management. The platform is designed to be user-friendly and is built on Africa’s largest application-aware, AI-enabled, and software-defined network (SDN). It adheres to global industry standards for interoperability and compliance support.

Connecting Africa and Middle East

According to Marisa Trisolino, CEO at CMC Networks, “CMC Fusion is transforming what was once a complex, costly and fragmented market into one unified networking ecosystem. We are developing a platform that is making it easier than ever to do business across Africa and the Middle East.”

The platform delivers reliable and consistent performance for customers connecting across multiple countries and clouds in these regions. It consolidates information and analytics, enabling users to easily track orders, tickets, and services. Its 24/7 network monitoring ensures rapid detection and resolution of potential issues, allowing carriers, service providers, and enterprises to act swiftly and capitalise on new growth opportunities across markets.

Geoff Dornan, chief technical officer at CMC Networks, remarked, “In an increasingly cloud-centric world, we are removing the borders and barriers to growth in Africa and the Middle East and innovating to directly address on-the-ground challenges where we operate. We’re looking forward to making it even easier for our customers to grow their businesses across these regions.”

One of the offerings within CMC Fusion is CMC Cloud, which provides high-performance edge computing across Africa. This IaaS solution is designed to bring workloads closer to users, enhancing application and service performance without requiring investment in physical hardware. CMC Networks operates the largest pan-African network, serving 51 of Africa's 54 countries, along with 11 countries in the Middle East, and maintains regional hubs in key interconnection points across Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Starlink launches budget-friendly internet in Kenya, challenging Safaricom as competition heats up in the evolving digital landscape. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Starlink has introduced a more affordable kit and monthly plan in Kenya, aiming to capture a larger share of the market

This launch comes shortly after Safaricom, Kenya’s leading internet service provider, boosted its fiber internet speeds to keep pace with the increasing competition.

The new Starlink Mini kit is now available at KES 27,000 (US$208.38), a notable drop from the original price of KES 45,000 (US$347.25) when it first launched in July 2023. This cost-effective kit provides speeds of up to 100Mbps, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious users looking for fast internet access.

Alongside the new hardware, Starlink has introduced its Residential Lite plan, priced at $30.87 per month. This aggressive pricing is expected to escalate the competition for subscribers throughout Kenya, where demand for affordable, high-speed internet is rising. Previously, Starlink had also rolled out a US$15 monthly rental plan for its kits, adding to its portfolio of affordable services.

In response to Starlink's entry, Safaricom has upgraded its internet offerings. The provider enhanced its 10Mbps package to 15Mbps while maintaining the same price of KES 3,000 ($23). Similarly, the 20Mbps plan has been upgraded to 30Mbps, and higher-tier plans saw significant boosts as well, with the 40Mbps plan doubling in speed and the 100Mbps package increasing fivefold. Additionally, Safaricom launched a new 1Gbps plan for heavy users, priced at KES 20,000 (US$155).

This rivalry between Starlink and Safaricom underscores the dynamic changes in Kenya's internet market. With a 36.7% market share and a 14,000 km fiber optic network serving around 400,000 customers, Safaricom is a dominant player. However, it has expressed concerns about satellite-based services like Starlink, even appealing to the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) to restrict such entries.

Starlink's presence in Kenya poses a significant challenge to traditional ISPs. Its satellite technology offers broad coverage, making it particularly advantageous in rural or remote areas with limited or no terrestrial infrastructure. This could have a transformative effect in regions where internet connectivity has historically lagged.

The introduction of more affordable options by Starlink could accelerate the pace of internet adoption in Kenya, enabling greater access to online services, education, and digital economic opportunities.

With this growing competition, consumers are likely to see improved services and potentially lower prices. Established providers like Safaricom may feel the pressure to enhance their offerings and adopt more competitive pricing, which could lead to broader improvements in Kenya's internet ecosystem.

These shifts in Kenya's internet market are reflective of broader global trends. As satellite internet becomes more advanced and accessible, it presents both challenges and opportunities for traditional providers. The outcome of this competition in Kenya could influence internet accessibility and digital inclusion throughout Africa and other developing regions.