Huawei, the leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, has signed an MoU to strengthen its existing partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

“Huawei has been an invaluable partner in our efforts to develop emergency communications networks. In little over two years, we have deployed the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network in multiple locations around the globe, helping to save lives and rebuild communities. Communications is essential for the delivery of effective disaster relief, as well playing a crucial role in reconnecting families and friends at times of crisis,” said Andrew Dunnet,Vodafone Group Director Sustainability and Vodafone Foundation.

Huawei is expected to continue delivering equipment and staff to help the Vodafone foundation provide critical network infrastructure in the aftermath of disasters.

Weighing less than 100 Kilos, the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network being portable can be packed into four suitcases and transported on commercial flights. That’s not all, this device can also be assembled and configured to provide telephone calls in just 40 minutes.

The Vodafone Foundation deployed the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network in the aftermath of Typhoon Bopha in the Philippines in December 2012, with the global ICT solutions provider, Huawei, providing technical support from Manila. A part from the Asian communities, the Vodafone Foundation has also extended some of its humanitarian missions in the remote Kenyan villages.