Orange, a French telecoms group, has launched a new 5G network in Botswana, marking the first step in its plan to introduce high-speed data services to other markets in the Middle East and Africa. The 5G coverage in Botswana will initially reach 30% of the population, including residents of Gaborone and Francistown, the two largest cities in the country. Expansion to other cities is planned for early next year. Although the prices of 5G-enabled mobile handsets are decreasing, they are still unaffordable for many Africans. As a result, Orange is focusing on using 5G to provide fast internet access in Africa, where the low population density makes traditional fiber-optic infrastructure economically unfeasible.
Nene Maiga, the CEO of Orange Botswana, emphasized that the main use case for 5G in Africa is fixed wireless access, enabling fast internet connections at home. Orange currently operates in 18 countries in Africa and the Middle East, where it has more than 44 million 4G customers and generates significant revenue. The company’s CEO for the region, Jerome Henrique, announced plans to roll out 5G in around half a dozen countries by 2023, with Jordan likely being the first. Discussions are also underway for 5G launches in Ivory Coast and Senegal, pending regulatory conditions.
The introduction of 5G in Botswana represents a significant milestone for Orange as it seeks to expand its high-speed data services across the region. By focusing on fixed wireless access, the company aims to address the need for fast and reliable internet connections in Africa. With more than 60% of its total mobile customers and a substantial portion of its revenue coming from Africa and the Middle East, Orange views the region as a key market for growth and innovation. The planned rollout of 5G in multiple countries demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to its customers in the region.
Orange’s decision to prioritize 5G as a means of delivering internet services in Africa reflects the unique challenges and opportunities present in the region. While traditional infrastructure solutions like fiber-optic cables may be impractical in some areas due to low population density, wireless technologies like 5G offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative. By harnessing the power of 5G, Orange aims to bridge the digital divide in Africa and empower more people to access the benefits of high-speed internet connectivity.
As the telecommunications landscape in Africa continues to evolve, Orange stands out as a leader in driving innovation and connectivity in the region. The launch of a 5G network in Botswana and the company’s plans for further expansion demonstrate its commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to underserved markets. By leveraging the capabilities of 5G for fixed wireless access, Orange is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet services in Africa and drive digital transformation across the region. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and innovation, Orange is poised to shape the future of telecommunications in Africa with its 5G offerings.
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