International operator Orange Africa and Middle East (OMEA) and satellite operator Eutelsat have announced a strategic partnership to bridge the digital divide through satellite connectivity in Africa and the Middle East.
As part of this multi-year partnership, Orange will use the EUTELSAT KONNECT satellite, which offers state-of-the-art broadband technology, to provide reliable and accessible internet access. Initially, deployment will involve Jordan, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the aim of gradually extending to all countries in the region.
The two companies say that by combining Orange's expertise in telecommunications and Eutelsat's technological innovation in the satellite sector, this partnership will make it possible to offer services tailored to both private individuals (B2C) and businesses (B2B), guaranteeing secure, reliable and high-performance connectivity. The complementary nature of the fixed, mobile and satellite technology offers will help to connect isolated territories and meet the growing need for internet access in the region.
Timings and technical details are still to be revealed, but Orange says the partnership is based on cutting-edge solutions offering speeds of up to 100 Mbps. This, combined with Orange's capabilities, will make it possible to cover white and rural areas; provide services tailored to local conditions and the needs of individuals and businesses; and provide reliable and secure connectivity, in compliance with national regulations.
Orange says this proactive approach is part of a long-term vision to support digital development in all the areas where Orange is present, using the best technologies available, while respecting national frameworks and enhancing local ecosystems.