(Ecofin Agency) - Telecom group Africell Holding is currently preparing to upgrade to 5G, like some of its African competitors. In that regard, on April 19, 2021, the group signed a multi-million US dollar agreement with wireless transport solution provider Aviat Networks.

Specifically, Aviat Networks will upgrade Africell Holding’s telecom networks and prepare them to migrate to the 5G when needed.  

"With escalating demand for high-speed mobile Internet services in our markets, and with 5G in our sights, we sought an approach that offers us fast deployment, maximum flexibility, and lowest TCO (...) Aviat's backhaul and DCSG solution was the clear choice to meet all these challenges and support the rapid network growth of our transmission network well into the future," said Younes Chaaban, Africell Holding’s CTO. According to the press release announcing the deal, the deployment of the solutions will begin in Q2-2021.

Nine days ago, a delegation from Africell Holding visited The Gambia expressing (through Sam Williams, Africell Holding's director of communications) its commitment to making the necessary investment to improve the quality of its service in the country. Also, the telecom operator, which is already present in the DRC, Gambia, Sierra Leonne, and Uganda, will soon enter the Angolan market.  

With its 5G-ready telecom networks, Africell Holding will be able to meet the growing connectivity demand across Africa. The telecom group is equipping itself to meet the new competition that is emerging in the ultra-broadband segment. By being ready for 5G, Africell Holding is increasing its chances of growing its subscriber base, market share, and revenues.

Muriel Edjo