Open RAN technology firm, Parallel Wireless, has partnered with Network-as-a-Service provider, Hotspot Network Ltd, with the aim of providing network coverage to previously unconnected rural areas in Nigeria. The collaboration aims to connect rural communities to essential services such as health, education, and finance, thereby enhancing their living standards.
As a result of this collaboration, the reach of Parallel Wireless has expanded across more than 1,500 sites in the region. The company highlights the potentials of Open RAN as demonstrated in real-world applications.
Parallel Wireless underlines Open Ran’s abilities to connect previously disconnected individuals with critical services in the areas of banking, health, and education that they could not access before.
The company noted the increasing technology divide between urban and rural zones globally, and the fear of falling behind as government and public services turn digital. In response, Hotspot Networks is working with local and national governments to expand 2G and 4G wireless communications beyond the radio network.
The company emphasized that their initiatives go beyond mere communication and support phone banking, education, and health services, ensuring that these capabilities remain accessible to the residents.
Hotspot Networks’ founder and CEO, Morenikeji Aniye, reiterated that the urgency to overcome the current communication hurdles has increased. “The ability to instantly connect these previously disconnected areas brings them into the modern era with all its necessities,” he said.
The companies stated that once Hotspot Networks’ equipment is installed, Parallel Wireless can manage network traffic with their Open RAN software, providing reliable service to users.
Yisrael Nov, EVP of worldwide sales at Parallel Wireless, noted that they designed the Open RAN application to suit the project needs and ease deployment, aiming to connect as many residents as possible through 2G and 4G networks.
