Liquid Telecom is set to build and operate a fiber broadband network in South Sudan.
The network will connect the country to the “One Africa” broadband network, which spans 70,000 km, across 13 African countries.
Phase 1 of this project is due to be completed by the end of 2019.
The broadband network will provide connectivity for South Sudan’s 13 million citizens and their businesses, government institutions and Non-Governmental Organizations as well.
Executive chairman of Econet Global and Liquid Telecom, Strive Masiyiwa, says, “This modern ICT infrastructure will help address the most pressing challenges within South Sudan, including the urgent need for peace and state building, job creation and improved livelihoods.”
He adds, “South Sudan’s 13 million citizens will be connected to 300 million people across the East African Community. Connecting South Sudan to the ‘One Africa’ broadband network will also champion pan-Africa trade and help build Africa’s digital future.”
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The first phase of development will involve the building of a 300-km fibre backbone from the Uganda border, South of the capital city, Juba; as well as multiple metro clusters supporting the capital.
The operator has yet to share its schedule for subsequent phases of this project. They will however see the network expanded to other cities in South Sudan.
