A New Era of Digital Connectivity
Eutelsat Group and Bayobab, Africa's leading digital infrastructure service provider, have entered into a strategic multi-year agreement to leverage Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite capacity through Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation. This partnership is set to revolutionize connectivity across the continent, addressing the pressing needs of enterprises and cellular backhaul.
Expanding Coverage Across Africa
Under this agreement, Bayobab will utilize Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation to deliver advanced fixed connectivity services. These satellite solutions are designed to significantly improve network coverage, particularly in rural and underserved areas, offering high-quality connectivity with reduced latency. The ambitious roll-out plan aims to complete implementation across the continent by December 2024, with services already operational in four African countries.
Commitment to a Connected Future
Cyril Dujardin, Co-President of the Eutelsat Group Connectivity Business Unit, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: "We are proud to count Bayobab and the broader MTN Group amongst Africa’s early adopters of the Eutelsat/OneWeb LEO constellation. This partnership underscores the commitment of both Eutelsat and Bayobab to drive digital inclusion, and the pertinence of innovative satellite solutions to achieve this aim, notably the unique properties of ubiquitous, low latency LEO capacity.”
Empowering Africa
Frédéric Schepens, Chief Executive Officer of Bayobab, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "At Bayobab, we're passionate about being at the forefront of harnessing technology to empower people and businesses across Africa. Our partnership with Eutelsat and the integration of OneWeb's LEO satellite services into our solutions is a testament to this commitment. This collaboration brings cutting-edge digital connectivity to even the most remote corners of the continent and reaffirms our promise of 'Connecting Africa' – a promise rooted in partnership and driven by a vision of a digitally inclusive future."
A Step Forward for Africa
The collaboration between Eutelsat and Bayobab represents a significant advancement in bridging the digital divide in Africa. By deploying and integrating LEO satellite technology, the partnership will enhance connectivity solutions, empowering communities across the continent and paving the way for a more digitally inclusive future.
