MOBILE network operator NetOne has forged a historic partnership with United States-based AST Space Mobile to bring fifth-generation (5G) connectivity to its subscriber base, the Zimbabwe Independent has learnt.
This strategic alliance seeks to bridge the digital divide and empower millions with access to reliable mobile broadband services.
NetOne group chief executive officer Raphael Mushanawani said the partnership would significantly enhance connectivity in remote and hard-to-reach regions.
“We are excited to partner with AST Space Mobile to revolutionise connectivity in Zimbabwe. This collaboration aligns with our vision of ensuring that every Zimbabwean, regardless of location, has access to reliable mobile broadband services,” he told the Independent.
“What we want to do as NetOne is to make sure that we drive towards providing network coverage for almost every corner of the country, so that we make sure that the nation has got access to communication, not just communication, but digital communication at fast speeds, we are talking of 5G here.
“We do not segregate those that are in the marginalised areas. We want to make sure that everybody has the same experience as our customers. So, what that means is that we will be able to offer communication without building base stations in rugged areas.”
The new technology, Mushanawani added, would improve connectivity in inaccessible areas.
He added: “So using the low orbit satellites, we will now be able to offer cellular connectivity to our customers without spending a lot of time on structuring.”
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Paul Nalikka, AST SpaceMobile’s vice-president of business development, said the company’s primary objective was to bridge the digital divide by providing universal access to connectivity.
“Partnering with NetOne allows us to bring innovative satellite-based solutions to Zimbabwe and empower businesses and individuals with enhanced connectivity,” he said.
AST SpaceMobile is a publicly-traded satellite designer and manufacturer based in Midland, Texas, United States.
The company is building the SpaceMobile satellite constellation, a space-based cellular broadband network that will allow existing, unmodified smartphones to connect to satellites in areas with coverage gaps.
This bold move is a major step towards a digitally-enabled economy for Zimbabwe, where every citizen can access fast and reliable internet. With AST Space Mobile’s innovative satellite-based solutions, NetOne can now deliver services instantly, accelerating the growth of the network and connecting the unconnected.
AST SpaceMobile’s ambitious plans for global connectivity have already garnered significant industry support, with notable partnerships forged with companies such as Vodafone, AT&T, and Telefonica, among others. These collaborations underscore the growing recognition of the importance of bridging the digital divide and providing universal access to mobile broadband services.
The firm is targeting to mobilise US$160 million in revenue this year.
