Airspan Networks, a provider of WiMAX-based broadband wireless access networks, announced that it has been selected by One Communications (OneCom), a newly acquired subsidiary of Safaricom, as their WiMAX infrastructure partner in OneCom’s rollout of a nationwide WiMAX network across Kenya.
“Kenya’s One Communications has contracted Airspan as its preferred technology partner in rolling out a nationwide WiMAX network,” said OneCom CEO Geoffrey Shimanyula. “Airspan was chosen for its comprehensive WiMAX product portfolio and its ability to provide true 16d to 16e seamless upgrade through simple software without changing the hardware and system configurations,” Shimanyula continued.
Using Airspan’s WiMAX products, OneCom will offer business and residential high-speed data services across Kenya, allowing it to serve areas previously unreached by broadband. “OneCom seeks to be the first data service provider to establish operations in regions that have traditionally been ignored, whereby the only connectivity available is through expensive VSAT (very small aperture terminal) installations or unreliable analogue links,” Shimanyula said. “OneCom’s investment will be much greater than what has been invested in other data networks around the country,” Shimanyula added.
“We are proud to have been selected by OneCom for this important nationwide infrastructure deployment,” said Anders Rendahl, Airspan Senior Vice President and General Manager EMEA. “Africa continues to be a growth market for our WiMAX solutions and this nationwide deployment is proof-positive of our growing market share in this important region.”
