Mobile

Nokia supports 5G rollout in Ghana

The development will enable mobile service providers to deliver 5G services to their subscribers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Nokia has strengthened its partnership with Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC) by building a 5G mobile core network

NGIC will make use of the 5G network to offer wholesale services to mobile service providers in the country, enabling them to deliver 5G services to their subscribers.

The 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) Core will provide the security, resiliency and reliability that is needed to deliver 5G services in the West African country. The agreement includes Nokia’s Cloud Mobility Manager (CMM) and Cloud Mobile Gateway (CMG), in addition to the previously announced 4G and 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) AirScale base stations, and will be managed by Nokia’s MantaRay network management system. Nokia will also provide its end-to-end service suite for the full scope of the deal.

“We chose Nokia because they are a trusted and proven partner in Africa that can deliver on our ambitions to introduce 5G services in Ghana,” remarked Harikirit Singh, executive director of NGIC Ghana. “As NGIC is a wholesale network provider to mobile operators in Ghana, Nokia’s 5G RAN and Core solution is a key part of our network evolution as it incorporates the flexibility, scalability, resilience and security that we need as the sole 5G network in the country. This will enable us to integrate more seamlessly with our clients’ networks to deliver 5G services to the people and businesses of Ghana.”

Expanding 5G

The Nokia and NGIC 5G open-access and cloud-based network will offer mobile operators in Ghana a shared, secure, environmentally sustainable and high-speed network that will enable the rapid expansion of 5G services with reduced capital expenditure. In the future, the network will enable newer capabilities, like enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine-type communication and ultra-reliable low-latency communication.

NGIC plans to launch its wholesale 4G and 5G Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) within 2024. Additionally, to keep the shared network at the forefront of technology, Nokia and NGIC will build a flagship 4G/5G Center of Excellence in Ghana that will serve as a test bed for newer technologies and use cases, and also demonstrate Nokia’s capabilities on network sharing, Cloud RAN and Open RAN.

Michael Tseytlin, chief technology officer of NGIC Ghana, surmised, “In partnership with Nokia, we will empower our customers to fully benefit from 5G in Ghana, with plans to extend this to other regions in Africa. NGIC will utilize Nokia's technology and products to deploy network infrastructure and related services, aiming to serve both enterprise and consumer markets. This initiative will help bridge the digital divide and introduce new services in finance, healthcare and education to enable Ghana's transition to the digital economy.”

C-CONNECT launches with rewarding top-ups

C-CONNECT launches in South Africa, offering prepaid users rewards for airtime and data top-ups, along with easy SIM delivery and RICA processes. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

C-CONNECT, the latest virtual mobile network operator (MVNO) in South Africa, has launched nationwide, introducing more options and competition to the mobile market

Focused on delivering affordable mobile services without compromising quality, C-CONNECT aims to be the top choice for savvy prepaid users.

This innovative prepaid, SIM-only brand uses C-Cell’s reliable network infrastructure and offers rewards for activities customers already do, enabling them to spend more on what matters most to them. Subscribers can earn 10% back in the form of Cha-Chings, the in-app currency, when they top up their prepaid Airtime or Data. These Cha-Chings can be redeemed for a wide range of lifestyle products and services, such as prepaid electricity/water and data, event tickets, and gaming vouchers, helping customers maximize their mobile spending while enjoying various lifestyle benefits.

Topping up with Airtime or Data is easy via the C-CONNECT app, online at c-connect.co.za, through USSD (*105#), or by purchasing a voucher at partner stores. Users can also recharge with Ringas or Blu Voucher, a universal, single-use prepaid airtime voucher. Data on the C-CONNECT app and Airtime on the USSD are zero-rated.

With South African consumers facing significant financial pressures, C-CONNECT anticipates strong demand for its MVNO service. The company is eager to connect consumers with rewards and provide businesses with new ways to satisfy their customers.

“What sets us apart in a competitive market is that we offer people meaningful rewards for buying voice and data, an essential everyone needs. It’s the most rewarding connection for South African cellular subscribers with no fuss and no frills, just a straightforward and simple way to access a world of prepaid services with added benefits. With C-CONNECT, we’re not just offering connectivity; we’re giving our customers the power to see real rewards from their mobile usage,” said Richard Anderson, chief operating officer of C-CONNECT.

Telecom Namibia modernises mobile network nationwide

Telecom Namibia partners with ZTE and Huafull to modernise and expand its mobile network, enhancing 4G, 4.5G, and 5G coverage, especially in underserved areas. (Image source: Telecom Namibia)

Telecom Namibia has unveiled a transformative three-year partnership with a joint venture between ZTE Corporation and Huafull International Limited

Recognised as a global leader in mobile technology solutions, ZTE's collaboration with Telecom Namibia marks a significant advancement in enhancing the country's mobile network capabilities and coverage.

Mobile network expansion

Aligned with Telecom Namibia’s five-year Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) 2027, this initiative includes investing in the modernisation and expansion of the TN mobile network. This will involve rolling out new mobile base stations and upgrading existing ones nationwide. According to the agreement, Telecom Namibia will procure state-of-the-art mobile radio access equipment from the ZTE Corporation and Huafull International Limited Joint Venture. This procurement aims to strengthen the mobile network's capacity and coverage, particularly in previously underserved areas. The partnership will support the deployment of advanced mobile radio access technologies such as 4G, 4.5G, and 5G, ensuring TN mobile consumers receive high-quality, fast, and reliable mobile broadband services.

During the signing ceremony, Telecom Namibia's CEO, Dr Stanley Shanapinda, highlighted, “As a committed provider of reliable and high-speed mobile services nationwide, we are excited to join forces with ZTE and Huafull to bring transformative solutions to our customers. This collaboration underscores our dedication to delivering unparalleled mobile connectivity and bridging the digital divide in communities across our country.”

The integration of ZTE’s cutting-edge equipment into Telecom Namibia’s network will facilitate the deployment of next-generation technologies, providing users with faster data speeds and enhanced reliability. Moreover, expanding coverage through the deployment of new sites will ensure seamless connectivity. By leveraging the expertise and innovation of ZTE and Huafull, Telecom Namibia aims to accelerate the growth of its mobile network footprint and offer improved services to both urban and rural areas across the country.

Jack Liu, vice-president of Huafull International, expressed, “We are very honored and grateful to Telecom Namibia for choosing and collaborating with ZTE Corporation and Huafull International as partners for the next phase of wireless network upgrade and transformation.”

Standard Bank Connect launches MVNO with MTN

Standard Bank’s MVNO service has attracted over 300,000 mobile customers, offering significant value with bank fees converted into Airtime based on customer engagement with bank products and services. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Standard Bank has unveiled a collaboration with MTN to launch a new Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), enhancing coverage for its customers in South Africa

Under the bank’s telecommunications strategy, the service previously known as Standard Bank Mobile will be rebranded to Standard Bank Connect, featuring fresh data and voice packages. “We are excited to collaborate with MTN and the opportunity to provide our customers with a range of newly differentiated mobile plans. The transition will be gradual, where we invite our customers to join us on our pilot program, helping us to build meaningful services together and experiencing Standard Bank on MTN’s wide network,” stated Kartik Mistry, executive head of Standard Bank MVNO.

Enhanced connectivity solutions

Since its inception in 2018, Standard Bank’s MVNO service has attracted over 300,000 mobile customers, offering significant value with bank fees converted into Airtime based on customer engagement with bank products and services.

“Consistently voted SA’s Best Network, MTN is delighted to partner with Standard Bank, a trusted brand in South Africa and across the African continent. Our aim is to create shared value by placing our partners at the centre of all we do whilst for fulfilling our vision that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. To this end we are committed to providing a proven, quality digital network and affordable mobile and network solutions,” expressed Quintus de Beer, Chief wholesale officer at MTN South Africa.

Standard Bank has introduced two primary connectivity packages to further its mission of connecting communities: the Connected Circle and the Connected Gigs Plans. The Connected Circle Plans are designed for customers who need both voice and data services, with tiers such as Connected Circle Starter, Lite, Plus, and Pro. These plans offer unlimited calls to certain community numbers and come with bundled data, enhancing connectivity flexibility.

The Connected Gigs Plans are tailored for those prioritising data, presenting substantial data packages at attractive rates. These plans also allow the purchase of airtime for voice and SMS.

Adding to the customer benefits, selected Connected Circle and Connected Gigs plans include up to 50% monthly discounts on tech accessories, thanks to Standard Bank’s collaboration with Dress Your Tech.

“Standard Bank Connect represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing our customers with end-to-end connectivity solutions that are tailored to offer more simplicity, more value and greater flexibility,” Mistry highlighted.

PalmPay lauded for mobile money impact in Nigeria

GSMA report lauds PalmPay for driving mobile money adoption in Nigeria, emphasising its role in financial inclusion. (Image source: Palmpay)

In the recently released 'The State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money 2024' by the GSMA, PalmPay, a prominent pan-African fintech, was highlighted as a key driver of mobile money adoption in Nigeria

Qualcomm supports African tech

MTC's MTC Maris set to revolutionise Namibia

OADC Texaf Digital - Kinshasa, a 2MW open-access, Tier-III data centre, boosts DRC's digital ecosystem with carrier-neutral, sustainable infrastructure. (Image source: Open Access Data Centres)

OADC Texaf boosts DRC's digital ecosystem

For Ghanaian customers, this license means more efficient and secure money transfers across the country. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Flutterwave gains enhanced PSP license in Ghana

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