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How satellites will bring Wi-Fi to rural schools

Johannesburg - Satellites are set to become a means to provide broadband Wi-Fi hotspots to underprivileged schools and communities in sub-Saharan Africa from next year.  

The initiative will give schools the opportunity to allow pupils to access the internet, without the need to install cable. 

Avanti CEO David Williams said: “Through product innovation and a partner strategy, we have found an economically viable way to deliver broadband to low income customers in rural Africa.”

Solar powered cells are set to be installed on the roof of a classroom or building, with batteries inside the cabinet to fully power the Wi-Fi systems.

READ: Why Joburg wants free Wi-Fi for all residents

ECO satellites provide wireless internet connectivity at a lower cost at around $3 per month on average – also allowing consumers and local businesses to access the internet.

"There are two models for rolling out ECO to schools and their local communities.

"Firstly, a partnership model based on funding for ECO from governments, international donors, NGOs or other global organisations that is rolled out by local partners," he said. 

Williams said that the second is a commercial model that provides a business opportunity for local and regional telecoms companies and internet service providers (ISPs) to connect new customers, and earn new revenues from Wi-Fi hotspot services.

READ: Joburg promises free Wi-Fi for 'all residents'

The satellites will be placed at locations around sub-Saharan Africa in the vicinity of schools in underdeveloped areas, from there feeding into the local community.

The company responsible for the installation of the satellites, Avanti, aims to connect more than a thousand schools and communities to the internet. 

The first contract of the initiative was supported but the European Space Agency which contributed €10.7m to help connect 1 400 sites across sub-Saharan Africa within the next two years using ECO.

“The first project is a significant step towards creating something that we hope will address a need across the entire continent.”

Avanti aims to have the first satellites installed by early next year, but has not yet disclosed the first location, while South African rural communities are expected to benefit.


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