(Ecofin Agency) - Angola, a country where only 33% of the population has internet access, initiated the commercial operation of its Angosat-2 satellite at the end of January 2023. The government, in partnership with telecom service providers, sees this as a pivotal step toward fast-tracking the country's digital transformation.

Internet Service Provider MSTelecom plans to leverage the national telecom satellite, Angosat-2, to upgrade its broadband connectivity services. Last week, on the sidelines of the 2024 NewSpace Africa conference held in Luanda from April 2 to April 5, MSTelecom inked a memorandum of understanding with the Angolan National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN).

Under the terms of the agreement, MSTelecom will integrate its fiber optic and microwave transmission networks with GGPEN's satellite platform. The move aims to extend the ISP's network coverage, ensuring that more individuals, including those in rural, remote, and otherwise inaccessible areas, can access reliable internet services.

The partnership aligns with Angola's National Space Strategy, which seeks to harness satellite technology for the country's development. By enhancing telecom services' quality and coverage, the government aims to accelerate Angola's growth. Since the commencement of Angosat-2's commercial operations at the end of January 2023, several connectivity projects have been launched to support this vision.

The collaboration between MSTelecom and GGPEN is expected to significantly improve internet access across the country, meeting the rapidly growing demand for high-speed connectivity in an era of accelerated digital transformation. According to data from the Angolan Institute of Communications (INACOM), by the end of 2023, Angola had approximately 11.1 million mobile internet users, representing a penetration rate of 33%. This partnership represents a crucial step forward in Angola's ambitious plan to enhance digital access and inclusion across the country.