Ethio Telecom expands 4G to 77 more towns, increasing coverage to 417 cities. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Last week, Ethio Telecom, the Ethiopian government’s telecommunication enterprise, declared the expansion of its 4G internet network to an additional 77 towns throughout the country

This expansion increases the total count of cities with 4G connectivity in Ethiopia to 417.

The company stated in a release, “Our company is committed to continuously developing various infrastructures and deploying cutting-edge technologies to simplify the daily lives of citizens and modernise work systems, thereby boosting the digital economy and promoting the multi-dimensional development of the nation.”

The rapid growth of 4G network access is expected to enable Ethio Telecom to connect with a larger audience. Moreover, it positions the company to consolidate its dominance amidst escalating market competition. Since October 2022, Ethio Telecom has been competing with Safaricom Ethiopia, a private telecom operator. Furthermore, the Ethiopian government is considering the introduction of another private telecom service provider.

For context, as of the end of 2023, Ethio Telecom reported having 74.6 million customers, which includes 36.4 million internet users. Meanwhile, Safaricom Ethiopia had accumulated 9.4 million mobile subscribers by the end of March 2023. The coverage of Safaricom’s network extends to approximately 40% of the Ethiopian populace, which the World Bank estimates to be 123.4 million.

As a Google Cloud Interconnect provider, Liquid C2 can now offer its customers direct access to Google Cloud services. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Liquid C2, a division of Liquid Intelligent Technologies and a prominent pan-African technology group, has become the first Google Cloud Interconnect provider in Africa

This strategic collaboration with Google Cloud, a leading global hyperscaler, greatly enhances the cloud solutions that Liquid C2 provides to its customers across the continent through its Cloud Connect portfolio.

Cloud Interconnect allows organisations to extend their external networks directly to the Google Cloud network via a private, high-availability, low-latency connection. As a Google Cloud Interconnect provider, Liquid C2 can now offer its customers direct access to Google Cloud services. This enables African companies to leverage the full benefits of the Cloud.

The direct connection's increased speed and higher bandwidth significantly improve the performance of cloud-based applications. By utilising this service, Liquid C2 customers will reduce their dependence on the public internet, thereby enhancing security and overall business performance.

“Being the first Google Cloud Interconnect provider on the continent is a significant milestone on our journey to becoming the leading provider of cloud solutions in Africa. By partnering with Google Cloud, we can leverage the strengths of both organisations to offer solutions that address the needs of the African market. Direct access to the Google Cloud network will bring about the enhanced security and operating efficiencies that our customers in wholesale, enterprise, and government are seeking,” said Oswald Jumira, CEO of Liquid C2.

Liquid C2’s partnership with Google Cloud aligns perfectly with its vision of a digitally enabled Africa where no African is left behind. It also reflects Liquid C2’s commitment to empowering businesses on the continent with tailored solutions to meet their unique technological needs.

This partnership builds on Liquid C2’s existing collaborations with Google Cloud to provide AI-driven cloud and security solutions to customers across Africa, further enhancing its position as a trusted Managed Service Provider.

Siemon expands UltraMAXTM with 48-port patch panels, Turbo Tool, and pre-terminated cables, enhancing performance and streamlining network installations. (Image source: Siemon)

Siemon, a global leader in network infrastructure solutions, has announced the expansion of its UltraMAXTM copper connectivity system with innovative new products designed to enhance network performance and versatility

Following the successful initial launch of UltraMAX, the latest additions include UltraMAX 48-port patch panels in 1U flat and angled configurations, the UltraMAX Turbo Tool, and pre-terminated copper trunk cables. These new products promise to deliver exceptional connectivity and streamline the installation process.

UltraMAX is designed to surpass conventional limitations, boosting the performance of category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP systems. Combining ease of use, high quality, and top-tier performance within a sleek, modern design, UltraMAX meets today’s dynamic networking requirements. The system includes a comprehensive range of outlets, patch panels, and termination tools, allowing users to design, configure, and implement category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP network deployments with maximum flexibility. Featuring Siemon’s innovative linear punch-down technology, UltraMAX outlets guide and verify proper conductor placement, ensuring fast and easy terminations for users of all skill levels. This results in superior, consistent, and reliable terminations, reducing installation time and eliminating costly reworks.

The new UltraMAX 48-port patch panels are expertly engineered to maximise space and efficiency. Available in both flat and angled configurations, these panels allow users to optimise rack space while meeting stringent Category 6A Alien Crosstalk requirements. Constructed from high-strength steel with a scratch-resistant finish, these panels provide a durable foundation for critical network connections. Designed for significant space efficiency, they offer 48 ports in just 1U, minimising rack space usage while upholding strict Category 6A Alien Crosstalk standards. Features such as customisable labels, color-coded icons, and a magnified label holder simplify port identification and management. Removable rear cable managers help maintain organised cabling and optimal performance. These panels are available as empty, kitted, or pre-loaded with outlets.

The UltraMAX Turbo Tool is designed for user-friendly efficiency, drastically reducing termination time for category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP UltraMAX outlets. Unlike traditional single-conductor punch-down tools, the Turbo Tool terminates all 8 conductors in a single action, enhancing productivity and ensuring reliable high-performance connections. It features a rotatable tool head for flexible cable entry and compliance with bend radius requirements. Constructed from 16-gauge steel and high-impact resistant plastics, the tool is built to withstand job site conditions. Its ergonomic design includes a spring-loaded handle for comfortable one-handed operation, accelerating termination time by 15 percent compared to traditional tools. The integrated safety latch secures the handles for safe storage, and the replaceable cutting die extends the tool’s lifespan, ensuring flawless terminations across all category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP UltraMAX outlets. The tool supports terminations for UltraMAX hybrid, keystone, and panel-style outlets.

"UltraMAX signifies Siemon’s commitment to advancing copper connectivity solutions”, commented Kevin Stronkowsky, Siemon’s global copper product manager. "The expansion of UltraMAX with these new products underscores our dedication to innovation, providing intuitive, high-quality solutions that meet evolving customer needs. UltraMAX Reloaded introduces a new standard of efficiency and performance to UTP systems, enabling our clients to deploy networks swiftly and reliably."

The African Banking Digital Transformation Report by African Banker and Backbase offers vital insights into Africa's digital banking revolution. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The African Banking Digital Transformation Report, by African Banker and Backbase, provides key insights into the digital revolution in Africa's banking sector, highlighting trends, innovations, and financial inclusion efforts

The African Banking Digital Transformation Report, a collaboration between the pan-African publication African Banker and Backbase, the creators of The Engagement Banking Platform, stands as a pivotal resource in Africa's financial news sphere, providing comprehensive insights into the ongoing digital revolution within the continent's banking sector

Africa’s burgeoning population, projected to reach 2.49 billion by 2050, along with a remarkable surge in the usage of smartphones and tablets (with mobile phones accounting for 75% of web traffic), sets the stage for a significant expansion in digital banking. The advantages, including speed, convenience, and enhanced user data, enable banks to offer more personalised solutions for their clients. In 2021, the most recent year with complete data, 55.07% of the African population had a bank or mobile money account, a substantial increase from 23.33% in 2011.

Digital: The way forward

The 2024 edition of The African Banking Digital Transformation Report highlights that 76% of banks consider digital transformation as either their top priority or among their top three priorities, while the remaining 24% also regard it as crucial. With nearly half of the continent lacking access to any form of bank account, including around 60% of women, this result signifies the potential for banks to expand their customer base through inclusive digital offerings.

This year, cloud computing emerged as the most frequently mentioned technology being integrated into digitisation strategies, surpassing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity & Resilience as the primary driver since our 2023 survey. This shift can be attributed to the increasing sophistication of AI solutions, which now extend into other technological areas, including Cybersecurity.

In an interview for the report, Ecobank group chief digital officer Nvalaye Kourouma stated, “I really see AI as a game-changer, both internally and externally” because AI-powered tools help overcome language barriers for engaging customers in different countries. “We now have the capability to build local natural languages into our AI interactions so that language and writing are no longer barriers. Speech and image can be used to communicate more effectively. AI opens the door for a different level of engagement with our customers, so it’s encouraging,” he added.

The 2024 edition of the Report draws on comprehensive survey data from over 150 banks across 35 countries, offering an in-depth analysis of current digital banking trends, key innovations, and progress in digital transformation. This publication underscores Backbase's dedication to advancing technology and promoting financial inclusion in Africa.