Telkom Kenya has successfully secured a $4.4 million grant aimed at developing Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology, with contributions of $3 million from Rakuten Symphony and $1.4 million from Airspan Networks. This strategic investment is designed to enhance mobile connectivity, reduce infrastructure costs, and promote flexible network architectures throughout Kenya.
The partnership will facilitate collaboration with Airspan to advance the development of both 4G and 5G technologies, as well as knowledge transfer between the involved parties. Open RAN technology represents a significant shift in telecommunications, as it decouples hardware and software components within networks. This flexibility allows operators to integrate equipment from various vendors, thereby reducing both operational and capital expenditures. Furthermore, it fosters innovation by enabling more adaptable and scalable network solutions.
In January 2025, Telkom Kenya entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rakuten Symphony and Airspan, focusing on the collaborative development, testing, and knowledge transfer related to Open RAN technology. Under this partnership, Telkom Kenya will provide local resources and facilities, while Rakuten Symphony will supply centralized and distributed unit infrastructure along with its Operations Support System (OSS) platform. Airspan will contribute by delivering 4G and 5G radio units and mobile core solutions.
Mugo Kibati, Chief Executive Officer of Telkom Kenya, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are proud to be investing in the development of our people through the collaborative testing capabilities that we will be building within this consortium to explore the possible benefits of Open RAN in our mobile network.” The adoption of Open RAN technology is gaining traction across Africa, thanks to its potential to deliver cost-effective and innovative wireless communication solutions. By embracing this technology, Telkom Kenya aims to enhance network performance, extend coverage to underserved regions, and accelerate the rollout of advanced mobile services.
This initiative not only positions Telkom Kenya at the forefront of telecommunications innovation in the region but also underscores Kenya’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve digital infrastructure and connectivity across the continent. As the country embraces these advancements, it is set to become a leader in telecommunications innovation in Africa, showcasing the potential for enhanced digital connectivity and improved access to mobile services for all Kenyans.
