A new Internet service, e-WiMAX, has been launched in Malawi by Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM) for both fixed and mobile connectivity
TNM’s chief commercial officer, Dan Makata, said that e-WiMAX offers a fast and reliable Internet connection with coverage in many parts of the country which integrates the capabilities of broadband and wireless Internet access. Available to both fixed and mobile users, Makata explained that e-WiMAX customers will need to acquire devices depending on their location and usage.
The Indoor Smart e-WiMAX service provides connection through a fixed indoor unit made up of an antenna and a router or a router only, while the Outdoor Smart e-WiMAX service provides connectivity through a USB dongle. The service itself is activated using data bundles that can be purchased starting at US$0.82 up to US$164.50.
To make it easier for customers to purchase data bundles, TNM has set up a mechanism for customers to buy the vouchers of their choice by using airtime in their mobile phones as well.
“Currently the Smart e-WiMAX is only available in Blantyre, Mzuzu, Balaka, Mangochi, Nchalo, Lilongwe and Zomba, with a total of 64 base stations. We have also embarked on an exercise of expanding the coverage sites with additional base stations in both existing coverage sites and new districts,” added Makata.
Launched under the umbrella brand of TNM Smart Data products, the fully-operational service has been launched after the company acquired the Internet service provider (ISP) assets of Burco. After purchasing all of Burco’s assets at the beginning of this year, TNM established a new division called TNM Business Services which continues to operate and support all of Burco’s services and products.
TNM is a joint venture between Malawi Telecommunications Limited and Telekom Malaysia.
