UAE-based satellite operator Yahsat has announced partnerships with Hughes Networks Systems and iWayAfrica to support its African expansion.
Yahsat is launching a new Ka-band satellite, Al Yah 3, in 2017. This will extend coverage across Africa, bringing additional connectivity to 60% of Africa’s population across 18 African countries.
Hughes will supply Yahsat with its Jupiter System gateways and broadband terminals together with its Operating Support System (OSS) and Business Support System (BSS) solutions as a turnkey outsourced managed service.
Yahsat chief commercial officer David Murphy stated: “Our collaboration with Hughes further expands our commitment in the region enabling next-generation broadband services across the continent and allows Yahsat to better address evolving market requirements in Africa, from broadband access to mobile backhaul for telcos and ISPs.”
Meanwhile, iWayAfrica will provide Yahsat with user equipment, installation and customer care services within Uganda. The partnership between the two companies will see them provide nationwide coverage, with broadband packages designed to cater for the needs of business and home users.
iWayAfrica’s Uganda CEO, Godfrey Sserwamukoko, commented: “The partnership will enable iWayAfrica Uganda to offer Ka band VSAT connectivity in areas within Uganda not currently covered by other service providers.”
The new service agreement will come into immediate effect. Users will be able to instantly connect to the internet via a small satellite dish and satellite modem anywhere in Uganda. The satellite technology will provide reliable internet services, even in the remotest places, without the need for terrestrial infrastructure.
