Telkom Kenya has received a $4.4 million grant from the Japanese and United States governments to advance 4G/5G, and AI innovation in Africa.
Telkom Kenya announced that Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks, will invest $3 million and $1.4 million respectfully to develop future technology solutions. Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks will invest in a joint laboratory to develop and test Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology solutions tailored to the continent’s dynamic connectivity needs.
In a statement seen by TechMoran, Telkom’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mugo KIBATI said, “Telkom is pleased to collaborate in this consortium of cutting-edge technology leaders in this field of open architecture telecommunications network and reap the benefits of modern, and ultimately, inevitable technological advances such as AI. This is a significant milestone in positioning Kenya and Africa as a research, development, manufacturing, and testing hub of leading cutting-edge technology.”
For Telkom’s customers, the deployment of such technology has the potential to deliver an enhanced customer experience due to improved network performance.”
Under the deal Airspan will provide 4G and 5G radio units while Rakuten will provide an Operating Support System platform, as well as the Open RAN software stack to run and optimise the 4G/5G Open RAN network elements. Telkom will provide the requisite human capital and facilities.
Open RAN technologyis an advanced version of the traditional Closed RAN technology where mobile network operators typically rely on a single vendor for all their network equipment. Open RAN is more flexible, allowing any hardware or software from different vendors to interoperate seamlessly and securely, significantly lowering operational and capital expenditures in the long-term. It is also favoured due to its potential to modernise networks by improving service quality and widening coverage, especially in rural areas where deploying infrastructure can be challenging. Globally, the adoption of this technology is increasing due to the demand for more innovative wireless communication solutions and a collaborative vendor ecosystem.
“Our diverse portfolio of solutions delivers proven positive outcomes for mobile network operators across the world. We look forward to bringing Rakuten Symphony’s proven global expertise in mobile network transformation to support Telkom’s commitment to innovation,” said President of Rakuten Symphony, Mr. Sharad SRIVASTAVA.
President and CEO of Airspan, Glenn LAXDAL said Telkom’s collaboration with this consortium to explore the latest telecommunication advancements reflects bold innovation that will place Kenya at the heart of Africa’s technological leadership within the region.
“Airspan is proud to support this vision with advanced 4G/5G solutions, alongside Rakuten Symphony, whose expertise as the one of world’s largest commercial Open RAN vendors ensures impactful results,” he added.
As part of its long-term transformation objectives, Telkom is also investing in talent upskilling, positively impacting its R&D and Innovation, which will in turn enhance its overall proposition to its customers.