Smile Communications, a subsidiary of Smile Telecoms Holding Limited, has invested more than US$10mn in the development of a commercial fourth generation long term evolution (4G LTE) broadband network in Tanzania
The 4G LTE network, which is the first of its kind in Africa, is now commercially available across Dar es Salaam.
According to Smile, the network will substantially speed up internet services in Tanzania.
Irene Charnley, CEO of Smile said, “After more than a year of extensive testing and valuable feedback provided by techno-savvy trial customers, Smile made its 4G LTE broadband network commercially available to its current customer base which ranges from SMEs and households, to hotspots and individuals in Dar es Salaam.
“4G LTE enables ultra-high-speed internet access, accelerating broadband penetration and vastly improving the online experience. The 4G LTE standard is at the cutting-edge of mobile telecommunications,” she added.
According to Charnley, the true benefits of 4G LTE lie in the radically improved user experience and the ability of the global technology standard to enhance access to the most advanced form of communications whilst substantially reducing the costs of operations.
“4G LTE is making the internet come alive for our customers due to the quality of the user experience,” she said.
Founded in 2007 and incorporated in Mauritius, Smile has subsidiaries in Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria and DR Congo, as well as an associated company in South Africa.