Intelsat, a leading provider of satellite and terrestrial network solutions, has launched a new cellular backhaul platform in Nigeria, aiming to accelerate mobile network expansion and bridge the connectivity gap in the region. Dubbed Intelsat CellBackhaul Nigeria, the fully managed service will leverage Intelsat’s extensive satellite and terrestrial infrastructure to provide reliable and cost-effective connectivity to mobile network operators (MNOs) and internet service providers (ISPs) across Nigeria and West Africa.
This initiative addresses a pressing need in Sub-Saharan Africa, where despite significant progress, substantial connectivity gaps persist. According to Intelsat’s press release, almost half of the 400 million people globally who lack mobile broadband coverage reside in Sub-Saharan Africa. Expanding mobile networks, particularly in rural areas, is often hindered by the high cost and slow pace of traditional infrastructure deployment.
Intelsat CellBackhaul Nigeria offers a solution to this challenge by enabling rapid and efficient network expansion, even in remote and underserved areas. By leveraging satellite technology, MNOs can overcome the limitations of terrestrial infrastructure and extend coverage to previously unconnected populations. This not only enhances communication access but also unlocks opportunities for economic growth, education, and healthcare in these communities.
Intelsat has a long-standing commitment to connecting Africa, with a track record of deploying innovative solutions to address the continent’s unique connectivity challenges. In 2018, Intelsat partnered with Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) to deploy over 3,000 rural satellite base stations across several African countries, bringing connectivity to over 8 million people by 2023. This latest initiative builds on that success, further demonstrating Intelsat’s dedication to bridging the digital divide in Africa.
The new platform, located at the Open Access Datacenter (WIOCC) in Lagos, will be integrated with existing Intelsat platforms across Africa, creating a robust and interconnected network. This will enable seamless connectivity and improved service quality for millions of users across thousands of cell towers.
Beyond expanding coverage, Intelsat CellBackhaul Nigeria offers several advantages to MNOs and ISPs, including:
- Reduced costs: Satellite backhaul can be significantly more cost-effective than deploying terrestrial infrastructure, especially in challenging terrains.
- Faster deployment: Satellite solutions can be deployed rapidly, enabling quicker time-to-market for new services.
- Increased reliability: Satellite connectivity offers high reliability and resilience, even in areas prone to natural disasters or infrastructure disruptions.
- Scalability: The service can be easily scaled to meet growing demand, ensuring long-term network flexibility.
The challenge of connectivity in Africa is significant, but not insurmountable. Intelsat’s commitment to providing innovative solutions like CellBackhaul Nigeria demonstrates that progress is possible. Now, it’s up to MNOs, ISPs, and policymakers to seize this opportunity and leverage the power of satellite technology to connect the unconnected and unlock the full potential of a digitally empowered Africa.
