Technology company Telkom Kenya has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with mobile equipment vendors Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks. This collaboration will see the parties 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. The three companies will also conduct field trials to ensure optimal performance and seamless integration into Telkom’s network infrastructure.
Open RAN technology is 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.
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Under the tripartite partnership, 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.
Telkom’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mugo KIBATI says: “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.
President of Rakuten Symphony, Mr. Sharad SRIVASTAVA says:“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.”
President and CEO of Airspan, Glenn LAXDAL says: “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.”
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.
“Unlike other operators in the region that purchase RAN technology, Telkom is intent on being involved in the entire process; the development, testing, and consequent deployment of the technology in an open environment. In addition, our teams will benefit greatly from knowledge transfer with global market leaders.” Mr Kibati adds
The Japanese and United States Governments, through Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks, will invest US$ 3 Million and US$ 1.4 Million respectively into this project to advance 4G/5G, and AI innovation in Africa, consequently addressing some of the continent’s dynamic connectivity challenges and laying the groundwork for the development of future technology solutions.
