Kenyan operator Safaricom has selected Ericsson to provide an upgrade and expansion of its converged mobile network infrastructure.
Under the terms of this agreement, Ericsson will deploy Wi-Fi technology for the first time on the Safaricom network as well as expand and enhance the MINI-LINK microwave transmission network; enabling subscribers enjoy a richer quality of mobile broadband in Kenya.
Deployment of the Wi-Fi solution will enable Safaricom to optimise its use of spectrum resources while enhancing 3G services, and boosting broadband app coverage for customers in selected densely populated areas. Ericsson's MINI-LINK microwave products and IP portfolio will enable Safaricom to seamlessly migrate to an all-IP transmission network that supports coming technologies and Safaricom's five-year network evolution strategy. The Ericsson SSR 8000 family also provides Safaricom with a highly scalable, consolidated platform for both fixed and mobile services for IP/MPLS routing.
Thibaud Rerolle, Director, Technology, Safaricom, says: As we move into an era where the customer experience is redefining our networks, this development will place us in an optimal position to continue to grow our data footprint, especially in heavily populated areas such as the CBD, in the most cost-efficient manner.”
