OneWeb has announced a distribution partnership with the Pan-African telecommunications company Paratus Group (“Paratus”). When OneWeb’s global network coverage is activated in 2023, the agreement will assist Paratus in delivering low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity solutions across Africa.
This agreement will focus on providing satellite communications services to Paratus customers in 37 African countries, with a particular emphasis on rural and remote communities.
Stephen Beynon, Chief Commercial Officer of OneWeb, said: “Today’s agreement brings us a step closer to realising our mission of bridging the digital divide. By utilising the power of our LEO network, in addition to the scale and expertise of Paratus, I am confident that we will be able to deliver for the African customers and communities that will benefit most from our connectivity solutions.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a multi-year agreement between OneWeb and Paratus to construct a gateway in Luanda, Angola, that will be operational in the second half of 2023. This new gateway will make it easier to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity from OneWeb to businesses, government, schools, clinics, and hospitals in underserved areas.
The announcement builds on significant strides made by both companies to improve connectivity in Africa. OneWeb has Satellite Network Portals (SNP) installed in Angola, South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, and Mauritius, and it continues to secure strategic partnerships to expand its coverage solutions.
Schalk Erasmus, Chief Executive Officer of Paratus Group, commented: “The OneWeb distribution agreement is a great achievement for us and affirms our considerable capability and reach in Africa. This agreement will further enable us to deliver on our vision to transform Africa through exceptional digital infrastructure and customer service.”
Recently, Paratus established a fiber connection to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, opened data centers in Zambia and Namibia, and activated its coverage solutions in Angolan provinces.
Martin Cox, Chief Commercial Officer of Paratus Group, added: “Being chosen as a OneWeb distribution partner confirms our commitment to building successful and trusted relationships. Low Earth Orbit Satellite technology is a game changer as it will offer high speed, low latency connectivity across Africa including in the under-served, remote areas.”
