Communications Africa issue 3 2012 by Alain Charles Publishing

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Issue 3 2012 Édition 3 2012

Africa

Afrique

www.communicationsafrica.com

Satellite Deploying VSATs to support backhaul optimisation

Banking Sierra Leone’s new financial framework

Networks Rural connectivity in Malawi

Television Content, capacity, and transcoding

Digital opportunities at West & Central Africa Com

Broadcast Buyers’ Guide

Europe m15 - Kenya KSH300 - Nigeria N400 - South Africa R20 - UK £10 - USA $16.50

FEATURES: ● Network ● Commerce ● Satellite REGULAR REPORTS: ● Bulletin - Agenda ● Equipment - Équipement

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AMOS-5 WAS SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHED

The AMOS-5 satellite, successfully launched to the 17°E orbital location, provides a full range of satcom services with high-power Pan-African C-band and Ku-band beams. With AMOS-2 and AMOS-3 serving Europe and the Middle East, AMOS-4 scheduled to commence operations in 2013 and AMOS-6 in 2014, Spacecom offers its vast experience to DTH operators, TV broadcasters, ISPs, VSAT broadband providers and telcos throughout Africa. Premium capacity over Africa is now available, contact us to ﬁnd out more. E-mail: amos-info@amos-spacecom.com • Website: www.amos-spacecom.com

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CONTENTS

Issue 3 2012 Édition 3 2012

Afrique

Africa www.communicationsafrica.com

Satellite Deploying VSATs to support backhaul optimisation

Bulletin

Events

Agenda

Banking Sierra Leone’s new financial framework

Networks Rural connectivity in Malawi

Television Content, capacity, and transcoding

Digital opportunities at West & Central Africa Com

Equipment

Broadcast Buyers’ Guide

Europe m15 - Kenya KSH300 - Nigeria N400 - South Africa R20 - UK £10 - USA $16.50

FEATURES: ● Network ● Commerce ● Satellite REGULAR REPORTS: ● Bulletin - Agenda ● Equipment - Équipement

A note from the Editor CONTENT, AND DISTRIBUTION OF content, is increasingly important to the commercial success of African carriers; as networks become more advanced, as markets become more affluent, so the demand for quality content, and for increasingly easy access to content, grows. This issue of Communications Africa/Afrique addresses the commercial and technical issues associated with content provision, from backhaul solutions to commercial utilisation to finance, via application development and operators’ routes to market. This issue focuses, also, on the broadcast sector, with coverage of developments in mobile television, and the comprehensive annual Broadcast Buyers Guide

FEATURES Satellite

What use of cellular backhaul as a VSAT application means for mobile operators handling increasing data traffic

Energy

Addressing the needs of energy impoverished people with products designed specifically for off-grid communities

Commerce

The use of mobile telephony to increase access to agricultural information

Apps

Consequences of competition between differing operating system developers

Networks

How mobile operators in Malawi are addressing emerging market dynamics

Money

The ways in which new forms of financial access are promising the potential of economic growth to Sierra Leone

Television

How the emergence of video content for mobile networks has created challenges for operators

Main Cover Image: Eutelsat Inset: InformaTM Contents Page Image: ICT4D

Broadcast Buyers’ Buide

A comprehensive account of the key players in the continent’s audio-visual markets

Une note du rédacteur LE DÉPLOIEMENT DES technologies d'information et de communication ont continué d'impacter sur le continent de manières surprenantes. Communications Afrique/Afrique célèbre l’utilisation des technologies d'information et de communication en particulaierement, en ce qui concerne les questions de la fourniture de contenus pour la télévision mobile, l'accès aux services bancaires, et le développement d'applications Managing Editor: Andrew Croft - andrew.croft@alaincharles.com Editorial and Design team: Bob Adams, David Clancy, Prabhu Dev, Immanuel Devadoss, Ranganath GS, Prashant AP, Genaro Santos, Zsa Tebbit, Nicky Valsamakis and Julian Walker Publisher: Nick Fordham Advertising Sales Director: Pallavi Pandey Magazine Sales Manager: Steve Thomas - Tel: +44 (0) 20 7834 7676, Fax: +44 (0) 20 7973 0076, Email: stephen.thomas@alaincharles.com Country China India Italy Nigeria Russia South Africa Qatar UAE USA

Representative Wang Ying Tanmay Mishra Camilla Capece Bola Olowo Sergei Salov Annabel Marx Saida Hamad Brett Pearson Michael Tomashefsky

Telephone (86)10 8472 1899 (91) 80 656 84483 (39) 06 97619380 (234) 8034349299 (7495) 540 7564 (27) 218519017 (974) 55745780 (971) 4 448 9260 (1) 203 226 2882

Fax (86) 10 8472 1900 (91) 80 40600791

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Email ying.matthieson@alaincharles.com tanmay.mishra@alaincharles.com camilla.capece@alaincharles.com bola.olowo@alaincharles.com mne@acpmos.ru annabel.marx@alaincharles.com saida.hamad@alaincharles.com brett.pearson@alaincharles.com michael.tomashefsky@alaincharles.com

Communications Afrique

Audit Bureau of Circulations Business Magazines

Africa

Head Office: Alain Charles Publishing Ltd University House 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place London SW1W 0EX, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 20 7834 7676 Fax: +44 20 7973 0076

Middle East Regional Office: Alain Charles Middle East FZ-LLC Office 215, Loft 2A PO Box 502207 Dubai Media City, UAE Telephone: +971 4 448 9260 Fax: +971 4 448 9261

Production: Donatella Moranelli, Nasima Osman, Jeremy Walters, Nick Salt and Sophia White - Email: production@alaincharles.com Subscriptions: circulation@alaincharles.com Chairman: Derek Fordham Printed by: Wyndeham Heron Ltd Communications Africa/Afrique is bi-monthly magazine ISSN: 0962 3841

Serving the world of business

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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BULLETIN Orange and Canal+ Afrique partner on payment

SES satellite now serving across continents

CANAL+ AFRIQUE AND Orange are offering Canal+/CanalSat subscribers in Africa a convenient way to pay their subscription fees with their mobiles, using Orange's mobile payment service - Orange Money - in Madagascar; all Malagasy subscribers who are both Canal+/CanalSat and Orange customers with an Orange Money account can pay their subscription fees easily and directly from their mobiles, and enjoy flexibility and instant delivery of their favourite TV programmes.

THE SES-4 SATELLITE is now fully operational at the orbital location of 338 degrees East, having been launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on board an ILS Proton Breeze M booster in February 2012; SES-4 is a 20-kilowatt satellite manufactured on the Space Systems/Loral 1300 platform, with 52 C-band and 72 Ku-band transponders, with C-band beams serving the eastern hemisphere of Europe and Africa and providing full coverage of the Americas, plus a global C-band beam to support mobile and maritime customers.

Networking in Nairobi AROUND 700 LEADERS of digital industries networked and discussed growth opportunities at the East Africa Com conference and exhibition held in Nairobi, Kenya; with a focus on services for customers, new content and apps, entrepreneurship, rural services, m-health, mobile money, mobile marketing and advertising (thanks to the dedicated Mobile Marketing Summit), customer experience management, and more, speakers included senior representatives from Orange Telkom Kenya, Airtel Africa, Universal Music Group, Spinlet, and the Communications Commission of Kenya, amongst others.

Ghanaian mobile money service acclaimed

Bharti Airtel buys Rwandan assets

NFC adoption still far in SA's future

BHARTI AIRTEL HAS bought Rwandatel’s mobile masts for $15.5mn; Bharti Airtel is deploying in Rwanda in partnership with Ericssons.

SOUTH AFRICAN BANKS The Aurelis Series from Imtradex and retailers are likely to be slow to adopt n e a r - f i e l d communications (NFC) technology for mobile payments because of the high costs of installing point-of-sale terminals and other enabling infrastructure, according to Tim Walter, Executive Head of Marketing at Nashua Mobile, who adds that there is little appetite among institutions to drive adoption of yet another new point-of-sale payment technology just as the end of their protracted rollout of the EMV credit card standard is in sight; says Walter, "Retailers and banks will need to see some clearly defined benefits in security, convenience and cost-reduction before they adopt NFC in a big way - we will need to see big retail groups, mobile operators and banks cooperate closely to nurture an NFC ecosystem based on a sound business model that works for all of them, and that could take some time."

TI Sparkle sells IPX to ASGSM.MOBI DESIGNED TO ENABLE end-to-end class of service management and high quality standards delivered through SLAs, the Telecom Italia Sparkle IPX solution has been chosen by ASGSM.MOBI, a mobile operator in Somalia that provides extensive value added services including low cost domestic packages, free international roaming, free virtual mobile wallet for in country Somalis, and an integrated and reliable mobile and virtual mobile wallet services for Somalis outside of Somalia; “Residential and Business end users demand more and more access to new applications and innovative content rich services such as Presence, Instant Messaging, Videoshare and Gaming, and our IPX solution responds to the requirements of mobile operators that want to deliver these innovative IPbased services with superior quality and security levels,” said Riccardo Delleani, TI Sparkle Chief Executive Officer.

Comptel establishes operations in Egypt COMPTEL CORPORATION’S NEW office in Egypt, announced at Cairo ICT 2012, represents the company’s commitment to improve engagement with its communications service provider (CSP) customers and partners in the region as well as its recognition of Egypt’s significant telecom market growth potential; “This move is part of our strategic vision to have a stronger presence within the Egyptian market and engage more directly with our customer base in this region,” said Syed Veqar ul Islam, senior vice president, Middle East & Africa, Comptel.

Y1B orbits for Yahsat INTERNATIONAL LAUNCH SERVICES (ILS) recently carried the Y1B satellite into geostationary transfer orbit on an ILS Proton for Al Yah Satellite Communications (Yahsat) of Abu Dhabi; “With the satellite in orbit, we are on track in our mission to connect communities around the region with reliable, affordable broadband services through our ‘YahClick’ service.” said Yahsat CEO, Tareq Abdel Raheem Al The Y1B and ILS Proton rocket launch, Hosani. late in April 2012

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

AIRTEL’S MOBILE COMMERCE product, Airtel Money, was adjudged the ‘Best Mobile Money Service’ in Ghana at the Mobile World Ghana Telecoms Awards, for its innovative features and security; Managing Director at Airtel Ghana Philip Sowah said, “We have developed Airtel Money as a product tailored to meet the needs of our customers...Airtel Money is the only mobile commerce product which customers are able to link to their banks and are thus able to undertake banking transactions via their mobile phones.”

Imtradex demonstrates digital radio in Dubai TETRA-USERS, MANUFACTURERS, NETWORK operators, application developers and system integrators at the TETRA World Congress, an event dedicated to the digital radio industry, held in May 2012 in Dubai, in the UAE, convened to learn about products supporting transition to and operation of the digital standard - with exhibitors including Imtradex Hör-/Sprechsysteme GmbH, a headset manufacturer; "As we would like to offer our users a variety of different tailored solutions, we placed great importance in the development of our Aurelis Series," said Ralf Kudernak, managing director of Imtradex Hör-/Sprechsysteme GmbH.

Le plus puissant satellite SES à ce jour LE SATELLITE SES-4 est désormais entièrement opérationnel sur la position orbitale de 338 degrés est; SES-4 est un satellite de 20 kilowatts doté de 52 répéteurs en bande C et de 72 répéteurs en bande Ku, basé sur la plate-forme Space Systems/Loral 1300 qui a fait ses preuves en vol. Il est doté de faisceaux en bande C qui desservent l'hémisphère est de l'Europe et de l'Afrique et couvrent l'ensemble du continent américain, ainsi que d'un faisceau mondial en bande C pour desservir les clients mobiles et maritimes.

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BULLETIN The ideal platform for ePayment opportunities FOR 11 YEARS Card, ATM & Mobile Expo has kept its status as the number one meeting place for stakeholders who wish to generate highly qualified and productive leads across Africa. Held 12-14 June 2012 in The Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Expo, which is endorsed by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), will provide a rebound for the “Cashless Lagos” initiative which coincides with this event. Part of the proceeds for this event will be used to fund the “Coalition for epayment” activities, focused on ePayment customer education and awareness generation. Over 50 exhibitors, 200 delegates and 3,000 visitors are expected from Nigeria and other parts of the world.

Deep Packet Inspection market worth $2bn by 2016 MARKET RESEARCH FIRM Infonetics Research indicates, in its Service Provider Deep Packet Inspection Products report, which tracks standalone DPI vendors and solutions for wireless and fixed line networks, that service provider DPI product revenue grew 29 per cent to over $470mn worldwide in 2011, and is expected to grow to $2.0bn in 2016, with the bulk of the growth coming from the mobile space; Infonetics expects strong growth for service provider DPI products in emerging markets in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa as operators look to address network congestion caused by rapid subscriber growth, comply with regulatory requirements, and support cybersecurity initiatives.

Essar Telecom Kenya extends Cerillion contract www.cardexpoafrica.com

M2M communication close to tipping point MACHINE-TO-MACHINE (M2M) communication is poised to change the way critical services are delivered over the next decade, from healthcare to transport to energy - but significant barriers remain, including overcoming technical complexity and regulatory hurdles that will pave the way for innovative products and services, according to an Economist Intelligence Unit report based on in-depth interviews with 18 key players in the industry; the report, ‘Rise of the machines: Moving from hype to reality in the burgeoning market for machine-tomachine communication’, sponsored by SAP, examines the business models behind successful M2M applications across sectors, identifies the factors that will drive further take-up, and puts forward action points for businesses and governments to address in order to overcome barriers to widespread adoption.

Bluetooth SIG launches apps for developers AT ITS ANNUAL member summit in Vancouver, Canada, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) launched its Bluetooth Developer Portal, a resource helps developers and engineers quickly learn the basics of Bluetooth device and application design, allowing them to tap into a huge new market for software applications that integrate with hardware running Bluetooth low energy technology; the 2011 launch of Bluetooth v4.0 unleashed a wave of new Bluetooth Smart devices that provide developers the opportunity to create the next generation of software applications that will transform the way consumers interact with their technology, and the Bluetooth Developer Portal is set to support developers with training tools, interactive forums, quick-start guides, and webinars to support creation of new and innovative applications using standardised Bluetooth data profiles.

CERILLION TECHNOLOGIES, WHICH provides customer management systems, has secured a contract extension with Essar Telecom Kenya to support yuMobile’s growth and business plans - continuing a partnership that began with the implementation of Cerillion’s CRM Plus, Service Manager and Interconnect Manager systems to support yuMobile’s launch in November 2008; Cerillion is now helping yuMobile to deliver an enhanced customer experience through its CRM Plus product, which is specifically designed and streamlined for the management of telecoms services - as well as enabling yuMobile to achieve a very low IT OPEX, which has been crucial in helping them to compete in the highly competitive Kenyan mobile market.

The wants and needs of BoP women THE GSMA MWOMEN team recently released the research report ‘Striving and Surviving – Exploring the Lives of Women at the Base of the Pyramid (BoP)’. This is the first report to survey the wants, needs, aspirations and mobile uses of women living on under US$2 a day. Conducted in partnership with AusAID and USAID, with primary research undertaken by TNS, ‘Striving and Surviving’ expands on a summary report entitled ‘Portraits: A Glimpse into the Lives of Women at the Base of the Pyramid’ launched at Mobile World Congress 2012. Key findings of the research include: 74 per cent of married women who did not want a mobile phone said it was because their husbands would not allow it, demonstrating the need to communicate mobile’s benefits for the whole family; and 77 per cent of BoP women have made a mobile phone call, but only 37 per cent have sent an SMS, regardless of literacy levels.

Des clés du développement durable

The bulk of the market growth for service provider deep packet inspection products will come from the mobile space. (Graphic: Infonetics Research)

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

LA COMMISSION "LE large bande au service du développement numérique" a lancé un "Appel à l'action" pour que les technologies de l'information et de la communication (TIC) soient considérées comme des catalyseurs du développement durable afin de poursuivre les négociations en vue de la Conférence Rio+20; Hamadoun Touré, Secrétaire général de l'UIT, a déclaré, "Il est vital que les technologies de l'information et de la communication se voient reconnues à leur juste valeur à l'issue de la Conférence Rio+20...En effet, elles fournissent les solutions technologiques indispensables si l'on veut assurer le développement durable de toute l'humanité et de toute notre planète.”

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AGENDA

Events 2012 JUNE 2-3

International Conference on Wireless and Optical Communications (ICWOC 2012)

Zhengzhou, China

www.icwoc.org

TMT Finance & Investment Africa

London, United Kingdom

10-15

International Conference on Communications 2012 (ICC 2012)

Ottawa, Canada

13-14

West & Central Africa Com

Dakar, Senegal

wcafrica.comworldseries.com

3-4

VAS Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa

vasafrica.comworldseries.com

10-11

Broadcast, Film and Music Africa

Nairobi, Kenya

16-19

Cyber Defence & Network Security Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa

www.tmtfinance.com www.ieee-icc.org

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Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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Operators adopt data roaming engine to monetise mobile data MACH, WHICH PROVIDES cloud-based managed communication services, has announced that five network operators from MEA (Middle East/Africa), APAC (Asia Pacific) and South America have signed up for its Data Roaming Engine solution in the last quarter. MACH’s Data Roaming Engine revolutionises the way tariffs can be designed and implemented, allowing mobile network operators to offer all subscribers a bespoke set of data roaming packages, and giving control of costs and flexibility of service choices back to the subscriber. Mobile data usage has seen exponential growth in recent years, but the potential of data roaming revenue still remains untapped, with consumers choosing to find alternative ways to access data services while abroad. Concerns about ‘Bill Shock’, rigid pricing structures for consumers and complex systems to enable data roaming combine to restrict revenue growth. MACH’s own research with YouGov shows that 58 per cent of smartphone/tablet roamers do not use 3G at all when abroad. MACH’s study also shows that an additional $900mn global market could be opened up in mobile data roaming simply by removing the fear of bill-shock. Lokdeep Singh, Chief Technology Officer, MACH, commented, “The unique managed service solution helps mobile network operators unlock the tremendous potential of data roaming, which has failed for too long to generate the kind of revenues it undoubtedly should. By simply giving subscribers greater insight into roaming costs and being able to target them with more tailored packages, MACH’s customers are at the forefront of a new approach to mobile data monetisation.”

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AGENDA

Livewire hosts Vodacom Games Store LIVEWIRE MOBILE IS working with South African mobile network operator Vodacom to host a Games Store to deliver the latest games and innovation around gaming to its growing customer base. The browser-based portal store will bring the newest and most popular games from all major publishers and give gamers in South Africa the opportunity to use try-before-you-buy wrappers, featuring demos and 24 hour rental. There will also be flexible pricing and subscription services, social media integration with Facebook and Twitter and launch-points from Opera Mini and on-device as well as the traditional Vodacom live! home page. This will give Vodacom’s over six million Vodafone live! users access to a broad range of games for everyone – from the traditional feature phone games to the most sophisticated smartphone HD games. The hosting and merchandising for the new Games Store is being done on Livewire Mobile’s real-time publishing platform Daius, which provides end-to-end content solutions across multiple content verticals for Operators and OEMs around the world. The team at Livewire Mobile has been working with Vodacom on a number of content projects since it launched a personalisation site on the network portal in 2008. The new Games Store is an addition to the growing portfolio of hosted multi-content services managed by the Livewire Mobile team. Dave Moreau, Chief Operating Officer of Livewire Mobile, said, “Vodacom is one of our most innovative and exciting customers. South Africans are enjoying mobile services at a rapidly increasing rate and we were delighted to be selected to provide this service for Vodacom. “Our team will work hard with the network to ensure we are providing the best and freshest games service to Vodacom’s customers, driven by the Daius platform and the in-depth analytics that sit behind it.”

“South Africans are enjoying mobile services at a rapidly increasing rate” Dave Moreau, Chief Operating Officer of Livewire Mobile

2012 mobile market penetration to reach 60 per cent ACCORDING TO REPORTLINKER.COM, mobile phones now represent more than 90 per cent of all telephone lines in Africa, and market penetration passed the 50 per cent mark in 2010 and is expected to reach 60 per cent in 2012. Subscriber growth across the continent has slowed to around 17 per cent p.a, but several individual markets are still growing at 50 per cent p.a. or more and others stand at only single-digit penetration rates. The continent's most advanced markets have passed the 100 per cent penetration mark. Although the greatest demand is in the major cities, cellular solutions are also being employed to increase accessibility in rural and other disadvantaged areas. In addition to mobile networks, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) systems have been introduced in a large number of countries for the provision of fixed-wireless services, with CDMA-2000 1x having evolved as a preferred technology. Additional choices are available through satellite-based mobile services such as Globalstar, ICO, Iridium and Thuraya. The introduction of prepaid services and a steady decline in tariffs has meant that more than half of Africa's one billion people can now afford a mobile phone. However, as lower income groups are being targeted, the declining Average Revenue per User (ARPU) is putting pressure on the network operators profit margins. Literal price wars have broken out in some markets where a large number of operators have been licensed.

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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AGENDA

Nokia Asha models now supported by Nashua Mobile NASHUA MOBILE, AN independent telecommunications service provider within the Reunert Group, has added the Nokia Asha 201, Nokia Asha 300 and Nokia Asha 303 to the selection of Nokia devices it supports on its flat-rate Xtreme Data package. The Nokia Asha 303 and 201 blur the line between smartphones and feature phones with a blend of rich functionality, ease of use and affordability. The Nokia Asha 201 offers a great Qwerty keyboard, while the Nokia Asha 303 integrates Qwerty and Touch into a great user experience and the Nokia Asha 300 offers a keypad and touchscreen. All three devices offer fast and easy access to the Internet, integrated social networking, messaging and world-class applications from the Nokia Store. Nokia Asha mobile phones make use of the new Nokia Web browser for Series 40 with up to 90 per cent data compression. This means smaller downloads, pages that load fast, look great, and are easy to read. Nashua Mobile now fully supports the Nokia Asha Says Nashua Mobile Managing Director, Chris Radley, “We are excited to make the Xtreme Data package available on a new range of Nokia handsets, giving users even more choice of mobile phones that they can use with a flat-rate data package. In the next few months, we hope to add even more smartphones to the selection of devices supported on the Xtreme Data package.” Xtreme Data is currently also available on Nokia X2-01 and Nokia C3 mobile phones based on the Series 60 platform, and the Nokia N8, Nokia E5 and Nokia E7 from Nokia’s smartphone range. Nashua Mobile’s Xtreme Data service works by routing data from the handset to Nashua Mobile’s shared GSM data access point names (APNs) from Vodacom and MTN. Web access is controlled and managed intelligently by Nashua Mobile's infrastructure partners, giving the customer a seamless experience that enables access to all their communication, social networking and information.

RascomStar-QAF and IPX Extenso work on provision of Congolese telephony services PAN-AFRICAN SATELLITE operator RascomStar-QAF has formed a partnership with IPX Extenso to deliver GSM mobile and fixed telephony access in remote and rural areas of Congo through RascomStar-QAF VSAT terminals. RascomStar-QAF offers end-to-end solutions which include rural terminals (phone boxes or stand-alone BTS/MSC) connected to the operator’s core network by satellite backhaul through a gateway installed in the capital. These innovative solutions, which have been developed in partnership with ViaSat and ip.access, allow operators to minimize investment costs but also recurring costs (satellite bandwidth, power supply, etc.). As part of this project, IPX Extenso will deploy around 50 sites throughout the country and one gateway in Brazzaville. Delivery to Congo is scheduled to begin this summer, when a pilot phase will be deployed to trial the system. Thanks to its local telecom partners, IPX Extenso plans to continue the deployment into 2013 with other countries in the central African region as an active infrastructure leasing company for mobile and fixed-line operators. Noting that operators have difficulties in reaching remote and rural areas at affordable costs, Mr Guy Badjoko, Founder and President of IPX Extenso is of the view that: “RascomStar-QAF’s new products are the perfect solution for providing low cost connectivity between these huge “islands” on the African continent”, and is confident that IPX Extenso can reach 10 if not more African countries with these products in the coming years. Mr Faraj Elamari, the CEO of RascomStar-QAF commented, “Our telephony services were developed to provide a multi-service solution which is also suited for universal access telephony services in rural and underserved areas. Deploying our managed services for African low ARPU communities with a partner like IPX Extenso is a new challenge that RascomStar-QAF is glad to meet.”

10 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

NSN builds Saudi network SAUDI TELECOM COMPANY (STC) subscribers can expect new mobile broadband services with super-fast speeds of up to 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The operator has selected Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) to upgrade its GSM and 3G networks and expand its commercial 4G network. NSN is responsible for building one-third of STC’s nationwide 4G network. “STC and Nokia Siemens Networks have enjoyed a longstanding, strategic relationship that has gone from strength to strength over the years. The latest round of network expansion and modernization provides a further boost to our partnership and will help us deliver a differentiated experience to our customers,” said Zeyad Thamer Al-Otaibi, STC Group chief executive officer for Technical Operations.

Promoting networking for communications professionals at SatCom Africa HELD IN JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 21-24 May 2012, the latest edition of SatCom Africa is highly regarded as the largest satellite communication conference and exhibition focusing specifically on the needs of the African continent - bringing together end-users and suppliers of satellite technology to find cost effective and reliable communication solutions. SatCom Africa provides a platform where new revenue streams can be explored, key technologies can be evaluated, and operators and developers can gain valuable insight into implementing successful business models. There are solid reasons to attend SatCom Africa 2012. SatCom Africa is an effective way to grow a business by: • Sourcing new clients and grow profits in Africa. • Positioning companies in market - maximising brand exposure. • Showcasing new applications to a targeted audience. • Networking with key decision makers. • Gaining first-hand knowledge of sector requirements. Co-located events SatCom Africa is co-located with The TV Show Africa, Telecoms World Africa, and Submarine Networks World Africa. The TV Show Africa is about multiplatform televisual innovation for media, telecommunications companies, advertising and business opportunities. Telecoms World Africa is an event for telecom operators, Internet service providers (ISPs) and vendors focused on investment into infrastructure, technology and capacity. Submarine Networks World Africa is a C-level forum where issues around opportunity, investment and growth for Africa’s telecoms sector are discussed.

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AGENDA

3G offload offers the solution to congested mobile networks ACCORDING TO WORLD Wide Worx, there were more than 50mn mobile subscribers in 2010 in South Africa alone, and this number is predicted by research house IEMR to jump to almost 70mn by 2014. Side by side with the growth in mobile subscribers is an increased appetite for data, driven by ever growing numbers of smart, connected devices, improved infrastructure bringing in more international bandwidth and decreasing data costs. The upshot of this is that the uptake of 3G in Southern Africa has been phenomenal, thanks to the relatively low cost of entry for 3G data in combination with the challenges to ADSL presented by copper cable theft and last mile connectivity. This has led to pressure on the cellular operators, since their infrastructure is often unable to cope with volumes of data and voice traffic. Data usage on average doubles every year and since data is only likely to become cheaper and the number of users adopting smart phones is set to grow as these devices become increasingly affordable, the pressure is not going to let up. In fact, oversubscription will become more and more of a problem unless measures are taken to alleviate the exponential growth of data traffic on operator towers,

By offloading data traffic from already congested networks, mobile operators will be able to free up space for voice traffic, offer improved data traffic speeds and quality, and deliver vastly improved customer service while reducing the requirement for a significant investment to upgrade their infrastructure especially in light of the fact that 4G LTE networks are destined to land this year, running off the same towers as 3G and placing more strain on already overloaded infrastructure. This will lead to decreased customer service, degrading quality of both voice and data capabilities, and general frustration as users are unable to perform the tasks their gadgets and smartphones were designed for.

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www.souknacomnet.com 12 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

This degradation in service is even more prevalent in areas where large numbers of subscribers gather, including university campuses, shopping malls, office parks, and events venues. Towers in the areas are not able to handle traffic volumes, resulting in dropped calls and failed data requests. Technology however has the answer for relieving this congestion in high volume areas: 3G offload to WiFi, which essentially moves subscribers seamlessly off 3G networks and onto local WiFi networks once they are within range. WiFi works particularly well in these types of enclosed spaces, and in fact offers better indoor coverage than 3G. WiFi infrastructure is cheaper to install than 3G, the data traffic also costs less per megabyte, and speeds are often faster, offering a better data experience.

A media specialist in ICT WORLD WIDE WORX is headed by Arthur Goldstuck, a technology journalist who developed the first South African benchmarks for web site usability and strategy, and has represented South Africa on judging panels for events including the International Advertising Festival and the Mobie World Congress.

Businesses urged to protect themselves from cyber crime syndicates THE RECENT SPATE of cyber attacks, including the recent theft of R42mn from South African company Postbank, have brought to light the significant financial risks of cyber-crime. Businesses have been warned that a cyber-crime attack can leave local businesses in ruins if they are not properly insured against cyber crime. Priyen Moodley, Executive: Governance, Risk and Compliance at Lion of Africa Insurance, says that phishing volumes have increased in South Africa, making the country one of the leading targets of cyber criminals in 2012. “Cybercrime cost South Africa R4,100mn last year with more than 4646 online adults becoming a victim of cybercrime every day in the last year, and incurring an additional R7,100mn loss in time spent resolving the crime. Businesses cannot afford these kinds of interruptions in 2012 and must take the necessary precautions,” he says. Moodley warns that one of the most vulnerable areas is internal data security. He says the majority of data contamination and loss of intellectual property occurs as a result of security breaches within an organisation. For this reason, he urges businesses to tighten up the security of their internal data stores as well as protecting data from external breaches in order to maintain their competitive advantage. “It is not only hacking that companies need to look out for. Hacking involves sophisticated and invasive coding where the challenge is usually simply to gain entry into a closed system. The greater danger is internal security breaches such as password sharing and the circulation of unprotected emails within a company which allow criminals access to confidential information,” says Moodley. Moodley advises companies to carefully screen the employees who will be handling confidential company information. He says it is also important to commission regular penetration and vulnerability tests which assess the effectiveness of the security measures and can detect the possibility of an internal or external breach of security.

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South African banks go mobile SOUTH AFRICA ALREADY has one of the world's highest mobile banking user rates, and this is set to accelerate, thanks to a 100 per cent mobile phone penetration rate and an innovative banking sector that is pushing hard to reach a large, still unbanked segment of the country's population. In an interview with local South African journal Business Day, the CEO of First National Bank's (FNB's) Cellphone Banking Solutions, Ravesh Ramlakan, said the mobile phone was the future of retail banking in South Africa. Ramlakan told Business Day that increasing convergence between cellphone and banking technology for communication, shopping and banking means customers are not using their branches as much for their banking needs. SA’s government has pushed banks to widen financial inclusion among poorer South Africans, and banks are developing various least-cost models to provide services to those with low and irregular incomes. But, whatever the model, the mobile phone is increasingly the implementation tool of choice.

Africa is the fastest growing mobile phone market in the world - with increasing convergence between cellphone and banking technology Strategies and solutions Early in 2010, Nedbank and mobile operator Vodacom teamed up to launch M-PESA, a solution that enables person-to-person money transfers via mobile phone even between people without bank accounts. This followed hot on the heels of the launch of a similar product, dubbed Instant Money, by Standard Bank and local retailer Spar. Like Instant Money, M-PESA enables customers, regardless of whether they have bank accounts, to transfer money from person to person using their mobile phones. First National Bank got in even earlier, launching its "eWallet" mobile money transfer solution in 2009. FNB

said that one-million eWallets had been created, and over R1.6bn paid into them, since launch. The eWallet allows FNB customers to send money to anyone in South Africa with a valid mobile phone number. Funds can be transferred instantly. The recipient receives a text message indicating that funds have been sent to their cellphone. eWallet allows payments to be made into accounts held at South African banks, and to nominated beneficiaries, including municipalities and major retail stores. "eWallet is more than just a money transfer solution," Yolande van Wyk, CEO of FNB eWallet Solutions, said in a statement on Monday. "The recipient is able to withdraw cash at FNB ATMs, buy prepaid airtime or electricity, send money to another cellphone, purchase and/or get cash at selected retailers, as well as make once-off payments. We have seen year-on-year eWallet growth of 143 per cent since January 2011. Average daily 'send' values are in excess of R3-million, double the figures we saw a year ago." The majority of the funds sent to eWallets originate from metropolitan hubs, and are then accessed across the country, often in small towns such as Giyani in Limpopo province and Ngcobo in Eastern Cape. Meanwhile, in 2012, local mobile services company Oltio was nominated in the "best mobile money innovation" category at the annual GSMA Global Mobile Awards for its payD platform, which turns a user's mobile phone into a remote point-of-sale device. Oltio is a joint venture company between pan-African mobile network operator MTN and Standard Bank. Through the payD platform, launched in August, consumers can purchase products and services online and use their debit cards to pay for the purchase while making use of their mobile phones to enter their PINs. And in December 2011, Absa Bank conducted South Africa's first live user trial of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology on mobile phones, partnering with Mastercard to embed the Paypass Tap and Go payment chip on mobile handsets for the trial.

Educating the market, highlighting the cloud CLOUD AFRICA IS a new launch event from the organisers of AfricaCom. Conference-led, with a co-located exhibition, Cloud Africa offers a significant meeting placet. Its programme is industry-led - and its exhibition attracts global players within the

“This is an ideal platform to demystify, educate and highlight the significant opportunities for vendors and users alike” - Jonathan Saulez, Regional Head Sub-Saharan Africa, Ovum diverse Cloud ecosystem with quality learning and networking, and a one-stop shop on the future of cloud in Africa. Taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa, 23-24 May 2012, Cloud Africa is sponsored by Safaricom Business, Business Connexion, Huawei, Grove Group, EMC, and Parallels - amongst others.

cloudafricasummit.com

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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How Hola! democratises social networking COMVIVA OFFERS HOLA!, an application to access social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, e-mail as well as popular web feeds via the mobile phone to democratise social networking through mobile phones especially the avid networkers in the emerging markets. Comviva’s portfolio of solutions spans VAS infrastructure, applications delivery platforms and customer-facing applications, and enables mobile service providers to enrich mobile users’ lives, whilst rationalising costs, accelerating revenue growth and enhancing customer lifetime value. Comviva’s solutions are deployed by service providers in over 90 countries and power services to over a billion subscribers globally. Hola! is powered by Comviva’s award winning WebAxn, a cloud-based or network-based mobile application platform that enables service providers to develop and deploy applications and services on mass market handsets. Hola! is a standards-based solution that enables rapid and cost-efficient development, testing, deployment, management, distribution and marketing of a wide range of client, SMS & USSD based mobile applications. Arun Tanksali, Head, Mobile Lifestyle Solutions, Comviva, said, “Given the viral nature of networking and messaging applications, there exists strong latent demand for an available, easy to use networking and communication service that extends access to popular networking apps across the entire

Research on LTE TDD

There is strong latent demand for an available, easy to use networking and communication service that extends access to popular networking apps across the entire mobile subscriber base mobile subscriber base. Operators in emerging markets need to act now to garner consumer mindshare, if they are to become a central player in the market for mobile social networking services. “Hola! will deliver services to mobile operator customers that will further drive mobile data proliferation. On one hand, it will help operators with their business objective of enhanced customer experience and increased revenues. On the other hand, it will empower customers to experience handset agnostic, faster and instant social networking connect.” According to eMarketer, there has been an increase in the number of users accessing the social networking sites on their mobile phones by 27 per cent from 2010 to 2011 and sending e-mails via mobile by 34 per cent from 2010 to 2011. Hola! will help the users to stay connected to the social networking websites without worrying about the cost and the network issues.

INTEL AND HUAWEI are working to develop interoperability testing and deployment of LTE TDD solutions. The two companies will establish joint lab set-up based in China for IOT (Interoperability Test) and implementation of LTE TDD technology. "Huawei has been committed to LTE TDD commercial deployment worldwide," said Deng Taihua, president LTE TDD & WiMAX &TDS wireless networks, Huawei. "We will continuously invest in LTE TDD research and deployment as well as the global expansion of LTE TDD networks. We are excited to partner with Intel to accelerate the development of our technology and provide our customers with leading LTE TDD solutions." Huawei’s expertise in LTE TDD network technologies and Intel’s cost-optimised mobile comms platforms will be used to expedite the maturity and deployment of LTE TDD.

How TV operators can gain a competitive edge

Telecel continues to build on its rebranding

CONAX, A GLOBAL provider of solutions for protecting multi-device digital content, offers the Contego portfolio of advanced solutions to enable secure distribution of premium content – broadband, satellite, and broadcast. With a multitude of TV operators making the transition from SD to HD content and the introduction of hybrid and Over-the-Top services, Conax aims to become a staple technology for empowering new business models for TV operators in MENA in the coming years.

TELECEL ZIMBABWE IS targeting 60 per cent growth in subscribers in 2012, in line with a US$70mn network expansion and upgrade programme. Managing director Mr John Swaim has cautioned, however, that the emphasis is on the value capacity expansion and network upgrade. The country's second largest mobile phone operator is establishing upwards of 300 new base stations across the country. Mr Swaim said the expansion would also target capacity upgrades as the mobile phone operator mulls new value added products and services. Capacity expansion and upgrade will allow Telecel to spread its footprint across the country with current focus on unconnected areas. Further, the company will seek to entrench its 3G efficiency and coverage as it intensifies provision of voice and data services. Currently, just about 50 percent of Telecel's network has efficient high speed processing capacity for 3G-related data services. "What we are going to spend is equally important as what you (customers) are going to get out of the (expenditure)," said Mr Swaim. He pointed out that Zimbabwe presented an exciting prospect for business in telecommunications with its high literacy rate. Telecel marketing director Mr Obert Mandimika said, "We intend to increase subscribers by 60 per cent. We are looking at 85 per cent coverage of the whole country," said Mr Mandimika. Mr Mandimika said the recent rebranding of Telecel follows the rebranding of other operations in the Orascom African operations. He said the new look was not just change in colours, but represented change in the way the company operates. He said it demonstrated Telecel's commitment on investing in Zimbabwe. "It is about making a statement on our future in this market and we feel we will approach it to ensure that this country holds its own...against regional and international operators," he said.

Supporting new business models Conax is an established provider of advanced content protection for a host of Middle East and African operations on various platforms, together with key partners. Tapping Conax’ strong security record and 25 years of pioneering experience, the Conax Contego portfolio will be Conax’ vehicle for expansion in the MENA region displaying tremendous growth potential. “Conax is well-positioned as a security partner for the future, providing advanced, flexible solutions built to scale for growth and development of new business models for content distribution, confirms Saad Mouneimne, Director Area Sales, MENA. We see the game changing in MENA from SD to HD content. As operators make the transition to HD and add additional new hybrid and OTT consumer offerings, Conax will provide the guidance and expertise for protecting the value of their premium content.” Benchmark security for distribution Conax’ flagship security brand, Conax Contego, bundles 25 years of pioneering experience into one unique solution to guide operators in navigating and realising new business models. The Conax Contego portfolio of products provide highly flexible solutions designed specifically for the future of broadcast and broadband pay-for-content services including hybrid distribution networks and multi-device access: • Highest security, flexibility & scalability available on the market. • Best tool for securing content via multiple devices. • Dynamic architecture meets any redundancy requirements.

14 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

Barnabas Thondhlana

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The Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) optical fiber submarine cable is a 17,000 kilometre long high bandwidth system that will connect 21 countries from France to South Africa. ACE will be operational Q4 2012 Will connect 21 territories, including 18 African countries

France

7 countries in Africa will be served for the first time by a high bandwidth international cable system ACE connectivity will be extended to landlocked countries : Mali and Niger Senegal Gambia

Portugal

Canary Islands Mali Mauritania

Niger

Guinea

Ghana Benin Nigeria Liberia Cameroon Sierra Leone Equatorial Guinea Côte d’Ivoire Gabon Sao Tome & Principe Democratic Will secure and diversify the international Republic of Congo broadband traffic routing Angola

Will provide seamless interconnection with existing high bandwidth cable systems connecting Europe, Asia, North and South America Designed to provide 5,12 Tbps , will benefit from state-of-the-art submarine technology

Namibia

South Africa

ACE, with its large bandwidth and high quality transmission technology, will support the present and future growth in telecommunications traffic between Africa and the rest of the world, reduce digital divide and drive economic and social growth.

Contact : Mr. Lamin Camara - Tel : +220 9974077 - Email : mlcamara@moici.gov.gm

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Du Pont offers satellite telephone and Internet solution for African businesses A BROADBAND SATELLITE-based solution is being offered by Du Pont Telecom to support businesses throughout sub-Saharan Africa with robust, fast, affordable, all-in-one telephony. The Du Pont BizSat solution, which is powered by Skyevine, a joint venture company between Ellies and Q-KON, delivers ubiquitous coverage without the need for supporting copper, fibre, cellular or DECT infrastructure. “It enables organisations in even the most remote, under-developed or under-serviced regions of subSaharan Africa to have full telephone and Internet communications that’s on par with that available in developed, urban areas,” says Graeme Victor, CEO of Du Pont Telecom. “It is also ideal for those areas in which the quality of existing connectivity offerings is inadequate.” The only additional equipment needed – apart from that required for any conventional broadband Internet connectivity or VoIP telephony solution - is a onemetre satellite dish. With no terrestrial infrastructure that can be compromised, the system is immune to cable and copper theft. Once Du Pont BizSat is installed, its performance is similar to that offered by terrestrial alternatives delivering bandwidth speeds of 256/4096 kbps for upload/download. In addition, users are less likely to lose signal or suffer interference as a result of adverse weather

Du Pont Telecom’s satellite telephone and Internet service gives businesses in even the most remote parts of sub-Saharan Africa (or those without copper, fibre or cellular connectivity) always-available access to essential business tools conditions than they do with DSTV satellite television broadcasts. Victor explains that one of the reasons Du Pont opted for the SkyeVine platform is because it utilises the Ku band for communication, rather than the higher bandwidth Ka band. “Ka delivers focused regionalised beams and does not offer ubiquitous cover. It is far also more susceptible to signal attenuation in rainy conditions making it less reliable in coastal areas where compensation in the form of larger, more expense antennas is required. Ku is far more robust and is delivered using standardised equipment, thus reducing the cost of equipment,” he adds.

Award for optical fibre CORNING INCORPORATED HAS received a Milestone Award in Electrical Engineering and Computing from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) for the invention of low-loss optical fibre, which played a pivotal role in changing the way the world communicates. The IEEE Milestone Award recognises significant technical achievement and innovation that occurred at least 25 years ago. “The explosion of the Internet and other information technologies would not have been possible without optical fibre. Only optical fibre provides the nearly limitless bandwidth required for high-speed transmission of voice, data, and video the world depends on for the way we live, work, and play,” said Marty Curran, SVP and GM at Corning.

North Africa Com returns to Tunisia

Safaricom in registration move to ensure compliance

NOW IN ITS sixth year, and still the the only conference and exhibition dedicated to the North African digital market, North Africa Com is held this year in Tunisia, 15-16 May 2012. This year’s North Africa Com caters for all layers within the digital ecosystem and includes keynotes and sessions dedicated to: content and applications; mobile broadband and LTE; networks and devices; regulation; enterprises; customer experience management; and more. Around 550 senior level representatives are expected at at North Africa Com, representing the entire digital ecosystem from mobile and fixed-line operators, Internet service providers, regulators, investors, telecoms solution vendors and content providers as before - with new additions in the form of OTT service providers, social media players and digital media brands.

INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY Safaricom has undertaken a vigorous subscriber registration exercise in Kenya, targeting customers who are yet to register their voice or data SIM cards. This follows a similar SIM card registration campaign initiated by the Kenyan Government in June 2010 and applied to customers buying SIM cards for the first time as well as those acquiring additional lines. It follows, also, the Government’s directive to mobile operators through the Communications Commssion of Kenya (CCK) to ensure registration of that all subscribers’ identity information. Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore has highlighted the measures that the company has taken to ease the registration process, “We have now made it easier for our customers to register by having additional agents stationed within strategic locations countrywide. This is in addition to our Safaricom Shops, Dealer and M-PESA outlets who are all authorised to register customers. To register their SIM cards, subscribers are required to give their full names, identity document number, physical/postal address, gender, date of birth and alternative contacts .Customers are also required to present their their original identity cards or other official personal identification documentation including Passports and Military IDs. In this campaign, M-PESA customers will not be required to re-register. They will however be required provide additional details such as their physical address, and alternative contact details. This SIM registration exercise will also greatly help Safaricom and the general public deal with the rising incidences of mobile phone perpetrated crimes.”

“Just the perfect forum for engaging value chain stakeholders and networking” - Nancy Matimu, Head of VAS, Airtel Africa Key representatives of the North African digital ecosystem The conference is designed to deliver market insight, practical solutions and best practice benchmarks that are transferrable back in the office so participants can grow their business. The agenda is a mixture of presentations, case studies, interactive panel sessions and Q&A slots. Speaking at the event are 35 key decision makers in the industry, including: Ken Campbell, CEO, Tunisiana; Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Vodafone Egypt; and Thierry Marigny, CEO, Orange Tunisie. There will be at least 35 speakers, sharing knowledge and insights into market developments and key prospective dynamics.

nafrica.comworldseries.com

16 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore has made a special appeal to voice and data subscribers who have prepay modems, iPhones, iPads and tablets to register their lines

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With Arabsat's new generation of state-of-the-art satellites, your world is growing larger â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and closer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; than ever. With four orbital positions in the sky covering an ever-expanding footprint across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and Europe, now you have unrivalled capacity to reach farther and connect in more ways than ever before. That means all the power to meet the growing and evolving needs of large telecom companies, government entities, the military sector and VSAT or IP networks. Connect more of your world, and join the Arabsat neighborhood today!

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AGENDA

Governments urged to use ICTs to reduce emissionse BROADBAND CAN HELP transition the world towards a low carbon-economy and address the causes and effects of climate change, according to a report by the Broadband Commission for Digital Development. ‘The Broadband Bridge: Linking ICT with Climate Action’ is the result of work conducted by the Broadband Commission Working Group on Climate Change, chaired by Hans Vestberg, President and CEO of Ericsson and comprising several members of the Commission, representing industry, international organizations, and NGOs. The report aims to raise awareness of the pivotal role information and communication technology (ICT), and particularly broadband networks, can play in helping creating a low carbon economy of the future, and highlights the importance of public private partnerships in accelerating change. It is based on interviews, case studies and supporting material from more than 20 leaders and experts in the field. “Addressing climate change implies completely transforming our way of life, the way we work, the way we travel, shifting our model of development to a fairer, more sustainable model to ensure our survival. We need to put at stake all the resources available to us, and mobilize the political will to turn discussions and negotiations into agreements and actions,” said ITU Secretary-General Dr Hamadoun Touré. Building on the agreements achieved at the 2011 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP-17), the report emphasizes the kind of

SkyVision working on Nigerian network coverage SKYVISION GLOBAL NETWORKS Ltd., a global provider of IP connectivity over satellite and fibre optic systems, recently extended its fibre network in Nigeria through the establishment of its new point of presence (PoP) facility in Abuja, Nigeria. SkyVision’s existing PoP in Lagos and new PoP in Abuja are connected to the company’s global MPLS backbone network enabling its customers’ direct access to the international internet backbone. This is made possible through SkyVision’s broad network as well as connectivity from anywhere in the world to Nigeria using multiple Submarine cables. "Providing unlimited, high-quality internet access services through our PoP in Abuja directly to the customer premises dramatically improves the customer experience and places SkyVision as a true end-to-end solution provider," said Mr. Eitan Mesika, SkyVision Sales Director for West Africa. The new PoP in Abuja will also allow organisations to benefit from SkyVision’s VSAT hub in Lagos which provides satellite-based virtual private network services, connecting corporate headquarters to sites that are not covered by any reliable fibre or microwave service. The company’s fibre-based services include SkyVision Internet Access, SkyVision IP-VPN and Carrier Ethernet services. In Nigeria, SkyVision also offers comprehensive Managed Firewall Services which include Managed Services and Self-Service layers to enable SkyVision customers with options including Firewall, Traffic Shaping, SSL VPN and Unified Threat Management (UTM) by web content filtering and application control and integrated intrusion prevention including antivirus/spyware. These services provide excellent benefits to enterprise customers as they improve productivity and provide network security without the need to invest in installing and managing dedicated equipment for their network. "As a local provider, we believe in the importance of the Nigerian market and will continue to invest considerable resources in developing and extending our fibre network coverage and services within the country," added Mr. Mesika.

20 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

transformative solutions that are enabled by broadband. It provides practical examples of how broadband can contribute to reducing greenhouse gasses (GHGs), mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change, and promoting resource efficiency, while at the same time building more prosperous and inclusive societies. “The understanding of the benefits that broadband can bring is at a global tipping point. Its role in GDP growth, in enabling the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and offsetting the effects of climate change is just now starting to be understood, because finally the deployment is there and the benefits can be realized. In today’s economic climate, societies need to develop, and with a solutions-driven approach to climate change, we can accelerate a new type of green growth while supporting global sustainable development goals,” said Hans Vestberg. Last year UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon stressed the importance of harnessing ICTs to improve the lives of people worldwide. In a message to the fourth meeting of the Broadband Commission for Digital Development in Geneva in October 2011, he said, “It is clear to me that information and communication technologies are transforming our world. Today, there is no part of modern life that is not affected by ICTs. With well over five billion mobile cellular subscriptions, and more than two billion people online, our challenge is to leverage the enormous power of technology to make the world a better place.”

How and why public access small cells could carry more traffic than macros in urban hotspots THE SMALL CELL Forum, an industry and operator association that supports small cell deployment worldwide, has published a whitepaper outlining opportunities and challenges facing public access 3G small cell deployments. The research highlights the major impact the technology could have in urban hotspots with conservative models, indicating they could offload the majority of mobile user traffic from the local macro network. However, the report also points out deployment considerations such as backhaul and interference and how these can be mitigated. The paper indicates that public access small cells could play a key role in providing additional mobile coverage, capacity and new services in both urban and rural areas. The Forum’s research found that even with conservative public deployments, small cells could offload the majority of subscribers in many areas thereby drastically reducing network load and improving the user experience. It found that with a ratio of one public access small cell per macrocell, 21 per cent of users would be offloaded; this rises to 56 per cent with four small cells and 75 per cent with 10 small cells. A major operator deployment consideration is whether to roll out open access small cells that would allow all subscribers equal access or hybrid that prioritises some users. By choosing hybrid access operators will be able to provide a “gold-class” service to certain subscribers or to organisations, such as police or first responders, who may help to cover the cost of deployment by providing small cell sites and potentially backhaul as well. Another important operator decision will be whether to selfdeploy or allow organisations (e.g. systems integrators, tenant owners, train stations or shopping malls or local IT staff) to deploy these open access small cells themselves without mobile operator personnel. This report concludes that SON (Self Organising Network) technology will be required in both cases as networks will need to be permanently aware of their surroundings.

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AGENDA

Africa telecoms and finance conference brings leadership on broadband investment models, mergers and acquisitions THE THIRD ANNUAL TMT Finance and Investment Africa conference returns to London, in the United Kingdom, on 7 June 2012 to address the new challenges for telecom and finance leadership to maintain growth through broadband investment across Africa. The African telecom sector has grown impressively over the past decade, adding 616mn mobile subscribers. However, growth rates are coming under pressure and new investment into broadband infrastructure is critical to sustain momentum and investor confidence. TMT Finance & Investment Africa brings Africa’s telecom leadership, stakeholders, investors and advisers together with the finance community to debate opportunities and business models. The conference, which is part of a series for financing emerging markets telecom growth, will review the latest opportunities in mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financing, next generation infrastructure investment, towers sales and leaseback, mobile licence opportunities, broadband investment and regulation. “Africa's telecoms sector has experienced fantastic growth over the past decade, but there are significant challenges ahead which must be met to maintain momentum,”said Dominic Lowndes, Managing Director of TMT Ventures, the event researchers and publishers of TMT Finance News. “Pricing pressure,

“Africa's telecoms sector has experienced fantastic growth over the past decade, but there are significant challenges ahead which must be met to maintain momentum.” - Dominic Lowndes, Managing Director of TMT Ventures regulatory risk and new infrastructure roll out challenges must be tackled by all parties to ensure further sustained investment in new networks, technology and applications. Lately there has renewed signs of merger and acquisition activity across the region drivenby consolidation and restructuring, which should facilitate more growth.” In what will be a powerful mix of presentations and interactive debate, event highlights will include keynotes by leading Telecom and Technology CEOs and CFOs, and expert panel sessions on M&A, financing and infrastructure investment for Africa.

www.tmtfinance.com/africa

Understanding cyber security CYBER SECURITY THREATS continue to grow in 2012. There are a record number of cyber attacks this year, but these attacks will also evince an unprecedented sophistication as both the targets and attack vectors diversify. As the use of information and communications technologies continues to grow at an astonishing pace on the African continent, the concomitant security threats grow apace. It is thus time to review and strengthen our individual and collective cyber security. Cyber Defence & Network Security Africa, taking place 16-19 July in Johannesburg, South Africa, is part of a global series of cyber security and information warfare events that IQPC organises in European, Asian, African and American cities.

Where West & Central Africa’s telecoms leaders converge and communicate TAKING PLACE 13-14 June 2012 in the King Fahd Palace-Soleil De Dakar in Dakar, Senegal, West & Central Africa Com is set to open a new world of opportunities in West and Central Africa’s digital market. There are around speakers due at the event, including: Mobile Payment Manager at Orange Senegal, Laurent Marie Kiba; CTO at Millicom (Tigo) Ghana, Obafemi Banigbe; CEO at Yookos, Tomisin Fashina; President of OPTIC in Senegal, Antoine Ngom; Group Marketing Director at Espresso Telecom, Asif Aziz; and CEO at Spinlet, Eric Idiahi.

"It is an excellent forum to exchange experiences, a good meeting place between industry players." - Bakary Dagnogo, Head of Network Architecture Department, Orange Mali This ninth annual West & Central Africa Com offers not only a strong speaker line-up, with a comprehensive overview of ‘need to know’ topics, but also plenty of

"It is good opportunity for us to learn from and meet with West African Operators and international manufacturers. It updated us on market evolution and helped us to plan our network development" - Boubacar Issoufou Djibo, Expert infrastructures larges bandes, Sonitel opportunities to engage with potential new suppliers and partners in the networking exhibition area, which is packed with some of the world’s foremost technology and solution providers. wcafrica.comworldseries.com

Transforming healthcare with mobile communications VODAFONE GLOBAL ENTERPRISE today announced an agreement with Boston Scientific Corporation, a global leader in the design of medical devices, to develop mobile health monitoring solutions that are set to transform healthcare by providing doctors with real-time information about patients' cardiac health and certain vital signs remotely.

“The mobile internet has already transformed how people work, share their lives with friends and family and learn about the world around them.” - Vodafone Global Enterprise Chief Executive Nick Jeffery 22 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

M2M technology makes common appliances more intelligent by enabling them to feed useful data back to the service provider or manufacturer to achieve a better customer experience. Remote healthcare monitoring systems, powered by Vodafone's "machine-to-machine" (M2M) technology, allow patients to use mobile devices to send health information to their doctor without having to leave their home, reducing pressure on hospital outpatient and inpatient services and increasing the speed with which doctors and consultants can respond to signs of deterioration in their patients' cardiac condition.

S04 CAF 3 2012 Report 01_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:19 Page 23

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SATELLITE

Backhaul

Why satellite is the best solution for remote cellular backhaul iDirect’s Richard Deasington discusses cellular backhaul as a VSAT application, and what that means for emerging economies in Africa

CCORDING TO RESEARCH from Cisco, the population of mobile-only Internet users is expected to grow to 788 million in 2015 – a 26-fold increase from 2010. This represents a tremendous opportunity for mobile operators to expand their businesses and gain new customers, particularly in rural Africa and other areas of the developing world where 3G mobile devices are growing in popularity.

With 3G, and eventually 4G, mobile devices becoming the standard, mobile operators must be able to implement a backhaul solution that can handle more data-heavy applications such as Internet browsing and video sharing

One key challenge mobile operators face, however, is backhauling cellular network traffic. With 3G, and eventually 4G, mobile devices becoming the standard, mobile operators must be able to implement a backhaul solution that can handle more data-heavy applications such as Internet browsing and video sharing. Richard Deasington, Director of Market Development for iDirect, which specialises in the development and provision of satellitebased IP communications technology, explains why satellite offers a great solution for backhauling 3G cellular networks and discusses some of the recent advances in satellite technology that have helped mobile operators bring satellite connectivity to Africa. C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Africa/Afrique: When a mobile operator is deciding on a backhaul solution, what are the key factors they should consider? Richard Deasington: There are many variables - the amount of bandwidth required, the size of the network, etc. - but broadly speaking, mobile operators have to consider hardware costs and operating costs. This is actually one of the biggest advantages of using satellite for backhaul in remote and rural areas. Thanks to major advances in satellite technology, satellite infrastructure is now cheaper and quicker to deploy and satellite bandwidth is much more efficient and affordable to manage.

Improving capacity An IP-base cellular network (Source: iDirect)

24 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

CA: How has the role of

satellite changed to support the needs of mobile operators? RD: The traditional approach for backhauling cellular traffic over satellite relied on SCPC (Single Channel Per Carrier) technology. This technology extends an E1 (or T1) fractional link from the Base Station Controller (BSC) site to the BTS using a pair of devices called SCPC modems. The problem with SCPC is that it’s not an efficient solution for remote mobile base stations. Because the capacity of the satellite link between two SCPC modems has to be configured for peak usage, which may last only a few hours over the course of the entire year, it ends up costing mobile operators a lot of money in wasted bandwidth, especially in rural areas where traffic is highly variable. In the middle of the last decade, there was a shift in the mobile industry to begin using IP technology. At the same time, the satellite industry also began developing IP-based networks, which use a concept called TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access). Through TDMA technology, you can pool bandwidth across the whole network, allocating it selectively based on real-time needs. Of course, while TDMA is highly desirable for variable traffic, there are still instances where SCPC is needed. That’s why it was such a breakthrough when iDirect integrated TDMA and SCPC Return technology on one platform. Because both technologies are integrated on one platform, it is easy for an operator to switch between a TDMA link to an SCPC Return channel on

S04 CAF 3 2012 Report 01_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:19 Page 25

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SATELLITE

Backhaul

demand. That provides significant bandwidth savings by eliminating wasted capacity. The integration of TDMA and SCPC Return also enables mobile operators to reduce capital and operational expenses by eliminating the need to install a second modem since the same remote can operate in either mode according to need. This is particularly valuable for expanding to rural areas where rough terrain and weather often make access difficult.

Choices for connectivity CA: Why would a mobile operator choose to use satellite over a comparable terrestrial technology? RD: Fibre networks and microwave networks are two terrestrial options that are used for backhaul, but they both have deficiencies that make them less than ideal for rural deployments. Extending fibre networks into remote areas is not always a feasible option because it comes with a very high capital cost and a long lead time. There is a lot of variability, but when you consider the general costs of fibre installation or dark fibre rental fees, it quickly becomes economically impractical to invest in a build that would hook up a remote base station to an existing fibre network outside of urban or suburban areas. The same problem exists for microwave networks. Depending on the terrain, a mobile operator might need to deploy a relay tower every 20-50 kilometres. There are a bunch of costs associated with that: land acquisition, power supply, equipment, etc. When you consider the fact that these are rural deployments, which means there likely won’t be anyone close by to service the tower in the event of technical failure, you also have to anticipate

challenges in maintenance and repair. Furthermore, with microwave, you would also need to replace equipment at all intermediate sites in the event of an increase in capacity requirements, which is already happening with broader adoption of 3G and 4G networks. One important thing to remember about satellite is that it can work with terrestrial technology, making it possible for mobile operators to extend their fibre networks in large cities to rural areas. Also, in addition to the combination of TDMA and SCPC technology on one platform that I mentioned before, there have been several other important advances that make satellite an excellent choice for rural cellular backhaul.

Technologies and network issues CA: What are some of these advances and how can they help mobile operators expand operations in Africa? RD: One important change has been the move to the second generation of the Digital Video Broadcasting standard, or DVB-S2 combined with ACM. This shift has made satellite networks dramatically faster and more efficient. The development of femtocell technology is another important innovation that supports the deployment of 3G networks. Small cell/Femtocell technology, which is perfect for small cellular base stations is going to significantly impact the growth of future wireless networks as it provides a less expensive and easier to deploy solution compared to macro-cell technology. The affordability of femtocell technology is a game changer in developing countries because it clears a path for mobile operators to extend data service to rural markets where mobile Internet access is the norm. ✆

Unprepared vendors will tell you that an ROI is tricky to predict when evaluating contact center solutions. Yet tricky or not, going through the process can be invaluable. It forces you to look at the bigger picture and consider all variables. It allows you to uncover hidden costs and complexities and to create a better implementation plan. At Interactive Intelligence, we’ve developed tools to step you through the ROI process. Our experts will work with you — to help make sure all parts of the equation are considered. So eliminate “tricky,” and gauge your ROI accurately. Contact us for a complete communications ROI analysis.

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26 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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RADIO

Energy

Communities gain with energy for content

PPROXIMATELY 1.6BN PEOPLE are currently living without access to electricity. To address the needs of these energy impoverished people, Freeplay has launched a new range of products designed specifically for off-grid communities in the developing world, and those recovering from natural disasters. Aimed at organisations engaged in aid and development work, disaster relief and emergency response planning, the low-cost, compact and robust Encore range of multi-band (FM/AM/SW1/SW2) radios builds on the remarkable success of Freeplay’s other products, which are in widespread use across Africa, Asia and many other parts of the world. Each radio in the Encore range is powered by a solar panel and Freeplay’s patented highly-efficient hand-operated dynamo, and includes a mobile phone charging point, a built-in reading light and an easy-to-replace aerial. In addition, Encore Primary offers an analogue display, which can be supplied in languages appropriate to any market, Encore Digital offers a digital display with a large, clear and easy-to-read format, and Encore Player offers a 64GB SD card memory which supports the use of pre-recorded educational material. Freeplay’s Managing Director, John McGrath, said, “Radio broadcasts

continue to play a vital role in the developing world by giving people daily access to critical information and educational content.

A vital communication tool Freeplay’s radios are already making a difference to people’s lives in some of the most difficult environments on Earth. They are offering access to information about health and the promotion of life-saving messages, Freeplay’s Encore range of radios such as how to prepare potable water, make it possible for people living how to fight malaria and water-borne without power or the money to diseases and raising awareness of buy batteries to receive these broadcasts daily disease outbreak. Freeplay’s John McGrath concludes, “Since its’ formation, Freeplay has developed a deep understanding of how long-term access to radio, light and electrical energy can transform lives. Our new Encore range builds on that experience and understanding and, in a very real sense, offers - power for good.” ✆

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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COMMERCE

Mobile

Connected agriculture: the growing role of mobile telephony Why mobile communications has become more widely recognised and accepted as an enabler of sustainable growth, especially in Africa

Using mobiles to increase access to expert agricultural information can provide real-time support in helping rural farmers meet the challenges they face

ELECOMMUNICATIONS HAS LONG been at the centre of global commerce in driving business transformation. Yet recently, mobile communications has become more widely recognised and accepted as an enabler of sustainable growth, especially in Africa and other developing markets. It does not have the same barriers to access as other forms of technology. It is simple, inexpensive and convenient to use. And access to mobile networks is now widely available, even in more remote areas. Soon it will be possible for everyone and everything to be connected. A key beneficiary will be the development of more efficient supply chains. In particular, mobility will drive substantially improved productivity and income for agricultural producers (a further $138 billion by 2020, according to Accenture estimates), as well as cutting costs and improving traceability for buyers and processors. Not only will this provide social and humanitarian benefits for local smallholder farmers but such services are also proving commercially successful – the key to viability and sustainability in the longer term. As Oxfam CEO, Dame Barbara Stocking, has recognised: “Mobile telephony could have significant potential to help the poorest farmers towards greater food and income security.”

Identifying opportunities Vodafone and Accenture recently joined forces together with Oxfam to determine the key underlying issues which could be addressed through the application of mobile technology and to quantify the potential benefits which could be achieved. 28 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

In helping to meet the challenge of feeding an estimated 9.2 billion people by 2050, the resulting study - ‘Connected Agriculture: the role of mobile in driving efficiency and sustainability in the food and agriculture chain’ - examined specific opportunities which could substantially increase agricultural income. The study explored those areas identified as most important in realising the potential of mobile telephony in helping to feed tomorrow’s world, including improved access to finance and markets and better information and supply chains.

Improving access to finance In the area of financial services, the study focused on three ways to improve the lives of farmers. First, mobile payment systems present a low-cost, secure and quick way to transfer money to other individuals or businesses, allowing them to invest in better agricultural inputs. Second, micro-insurance systems offer a convenient and affordable way to buy micro-insurance against crop failure when buying seeds and fertiliser and to receive payouts. Third, micro-lending platforms provide an appropriate means of securing loans from distant investors to buy seeds, tools, machinery or animals to improve output.

Best-practice information and advice Another area of opportunity is in the provision of agricultural information. Poor transport and communications infrastructures mean that farmers in developing countries struggle to get information about agricultural best practices and new developments. Using mobiles to increase access to expert agricultural information can provide real-time support in helping rural farmers

meet the challenges they face. Mobile information platforms enable farmers to receive text alerts direct to their mobile phone, tailored to their location and the crops that they grow. Farmer helplines also ensure that smallholders can use their mobile phones to call a helpline staffed by agricultural experts to give them immediate advice.

Improving supply chain visibility Agricultural supply chains in developing countries are typically complex, fragmented and inefficient, involving large networks of small-scale farms, retailers, aggregators, distributors and exporters. In meeting this challenge, the study looked at how mobile technology can be used to manage the supply chain more effectively through improved data visibility. Smart logistics enables mobile devices to collect data on the location, speed and route of food distribution trucks, for better fleet management. Tracking systems use mobiles to record movements of items through the agricultural supply chain, from farms to shops. Using mobile technology to manage supplier networks enables agricultural field agents visiting farms to use mobile phones to record data on farm conditions and expected yields. Similarly, adopting mobility to manage distribution networks allows retailers to keep records of sales of agricultural inputs like seeds, fertiliser and chemicals.

Improving access to markets In improving access to markets, mobile solutions could help farmers in developing countries secure better prices for their crops and improve competition in the supply chain through more effective trading practices.

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MOBILE

Commerce

Here, agricultural trading and tendering platforms provide an online marketplace for farmers and buyers to trade directly via their mobile phone. Agricultural bartering platforms also allow community members to exchange goods and services with each other.

:es services de convergence IP de haute qualité

Action now Many of the anticipated benefits from such initiatives will take time to come to fruition. The systems required to deliver these mobility initiatives are complex and fragmented, demanding the combined support of a variety of key organisations across the agricultural supply chain, including governments, NGOs and private enterprises. However, work is already underway in a number of key areas demonstrating how, by bringing together existing expertise and giving practical direction, mobility can deliver tangible results. For example, the two-way flow of agricultural information in real time is enabling smallholders to improve productivity; at the same time, track and traceability systems using advanced machine to machine (M2M) technologies is helping African farmers and distributors find new markets and meet required quality and regulatory standards. There is a clear need for close co-operation between mobile network operators, governments, NGOs and the private sector to deliver the products, services and potential benefits highlighted. The issues and interests of these stakeholders are converging and it is in their long-term interests to make these initiatives a success. By working together they can use mobile technology to unlock enormous benefits for the agriculture sector, particularly in Africa and other developing economies. ✆

Andy McFarlane, head of marketing, Vodafone Global Enterprise

ORANGE A LANCE son offre Multiservice IP eXchange. Cette offre associe qualité de service hors pair et rentabilité exceptionnelle. Grâce à un réseau IP privé, rapide, fiable et sécurisé, les services IPX d’Orange solutions voix, messagerie (MMS), signalisation et applications mobile bénéficient d'une mise en œuvre simplifiée.

ainsi que de son savoir-faire en matièrede gestion des équipements sur site clients. Avec un accès plus facile et plus rapide aux services « à la carte », l’offre Multiservice IP eXchange permet de réduire également les délais de commercialisation et donc d'optimiser la rentabilité et la croissance des revenus.

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L’avantage de Multiservice

Cette offre s’intègre dans un contexte de banalisation croissante des services fournis sur le réseau IP public et de concurrence accrue sur le marché international du trafic de la voix et des données. Ellle propose un niveau d’engagement de service élevé (SLAs) pour sa connectivité IPX et des indicateurs de performance structurants (KPIs). Grâce à cette offre conforme aux recommandations de la GSMA, Orange permet aux opérateurs de téléphonie fixe et mobile de bénéficier de son réseau mondial et de son implantation à l’international

« L’offre Multiservice IP eXchange donne aux opérateurs fixe et mobile un véritable avantage compétitif grâce à une combinaison efficace de qualité, de flexibilité et d’innovation. Ce point d'accès unique et sécurisé à l'ensemble de nos services sur le marché international du trafic de la voix et des données leur permet également d’optimiser les coûts liés à leurs réseaux et de réaliser d’importantes économies d’échelle», indique Isabelle Lorin de Reure, Directeur Marketing et Stratégie, Opérateurs Internationaux d'Orange.

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S05 CAF 3 2012 Report 02_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:20 Page 31

MOBILE

Apps

Apps & the mobile Internet

OBILE INTERNET IS here and geared for growth, despite the global recession. For 2016 the worldwide penetration rate of Mobile Internet will reach 34.7 per cent - or 2.89bn users - generating service revenues (apps and advertising) of 43.3bn EUR. IDATE has published a report dedicated to the mobile Internet providing its readers with detailed information about market's structure, data & forecasts 2008-2016, player profiles and strategies. It also spotlights the current and upcoming trends and the different kinds of mobile Internet usages.

Tablets have not been hugely successful, but they have brought differentiated user experience

Worldwide tablet sales ('000) (Source: IDATE)

The pace of change, the nature of change “Since the introduction of the Apple App Store, the focus in the mobile Internet has been mainly on the ‘Battle of the OS’. This is now seemingly all but over, with Apple and Google in a victorious duopoly. The scenario has now shifted to the ‘Battle of the platforms’, with players such as FaceBook and Amazon, who do not own an OS, joining the fray, and who are providing alternative platforms which aim to bypass the native OS system,” says Soichi Nakajima, senior consultant at IDATE.

In the near future, it can be expected that Apple will gradually lose its market share as their competitors gradually come up with better counter-offers. What happened on the smartphone market will be repeated on the tablet market, although probably at a quicker pace. On the smartphone market, it took two years before competitors started having true ‘iPhone killer’ products. For tablets we expect Android to pass iOS in terms of sales in 2013. One big question mark is related to legal disputes on the market for patent infringement issues. ✆

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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MOBILE

Network

Tapping into a low-income rural market Mobile operators in Malawi seem to be baffled by emerging market dynamics, but they are making significant progress in terms of connectivity and commercialisation

As the rural masses continue to be connected, operators are ﬁnding new opportunities the latest being mobile money

HE HIGH CAPITAL expenditure of replacing 2G or GPRS network infrastructure with 3G or CDMA to tap into the growth of the data sector, has been followed by the voice segment of the market tumbling in terms of average revenue per user (ARPU) from US$12 in 2006 to $4 at present. At least the growing ARPU for data gave some solace to operators but it was to be brief as ISPs also went mobile, courtesy of WiFi, in a desperate attempt to survive the turbulent market. The local regulator, Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), then opened the competition floodgates by allowing fixed-line operators to compete in the mobile sector. This has seen Access Limited and incumbent operator MTL joining Airtel and Telecom Networks Malawi in the mobile arena. However, while company strategists are overwhelmed by these rapid changes, customers have something to enthuse about. “The good news is that these markets will likely force prices down in which the customer will benefit,” said business commentator Chikondi Chiyembekeza, and indeed, all the local companies are basing their differentiation on competitive rate plans and flamboyant promotions that have helped push the prices down.

Usage, and revenue from users For example, the operators have been seen to adopt a ‘low average revenue per minute (ARPM), high minutes of usage (MoU)’ strategy which lowers profit margins. However, many industry figures favour the adoption of ‘high ARPM, low MoU’ strategy for optimum profit realisation. 32 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

“All a customer wants is to communicate. If a customer can communicate the same way on different networks, then price becomes the determining factor,” said a senior telecommunications marketer with a leading local telecommunications firm. “Actually, low prices fuel penetration especially when mobile services are commoditised.” Another paradox that continues to emerge in Malawi’s telecoms market is that the urban market is nearing saturation point at around 70 per cent while the rural market is picking up at 30 per cent.

Serving dynamic subscribers While the urban market was regarded the anchor of the industry’s future, the tech savvy urban customers are engaging in behaviours that really do not bring more money anymore. For example, this segment now uses social media such as Facebook, Google Talk and Google SMS to text and chat with friends and family at the expense of the operator’s SMS service, cannibalising the operator’s revenues. Some urban customers have also gone to the length of having multiple handsets to take advantage of the operators’ price wars and further compromising loyalty. “Some promotional offers are irresistible,” said Patricia Namulewa, a Zomba resident. “So as not to miss out on such promotions, I decided to have multiple handsets.” Loyalty is, therefore, fast becoming an issue and churn rates could be higher for an operator that is perceived to charge more than others. The 70-30 urban – rural

situation is the exact opposite of the country’s demographic composition with 30 per cent of Malawians living in towns and 70 per cent in rural areas. To take advantage of this demographic disparity, local companies have been seeking to tap into the rural low-income market.

How power affects operators However, this is not the ideal market for operators to compete in. Dogged by the lack of the national grid electricity, which is accessed by less than 10 per cent of Malawians, in these areas, operators have been forced to use gensets which has raised operating expenses. Additionally, the country has had an energy crisis for almost two years which has severely affected operators’ ability to expand their market share in the low income rural market. On the other hand, operators that have rushed to tap into this market segment have also acquired equipment that is solar powered. “We realise that Malawians depend on communication for their various undertakings whether they are in town or in the rural areas,” said Airtel Malawi’s CEO, Saulos Chilima. “That is why we extended our network deep into areas where accessing telecommunications services was deemed impossible.” While the majority of phone users are now ditching the feature phone for the smart phone, Malawian mobile operators such as Airtel and TNM have been selling basic phones at the subsidised prices of $11 and $13 respectively. This has helped the companies to gain market share easily and given some hope that the 70 per

S05 CAF 3 2012 Report 02_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:20 Page 33

MOBILE

Network

cent potential rural market could be of strategic benefit after all.

Making money mobile However, as the rural masses have and continue to be connected, operators are finding new opportunities, the latest being mobile money. Market leader Airtel was the first to launch its mobile banking service, Airtlel Money and competitor TNM followed swiftly after. With people in the rural market largely being without a bank, this could be a good way to compensate for the declining ARPU in the voice segment. Customers load money into a virtual account attached to their SIM at cash-in/ cash-out centres, often housed in local shops, and then send money to relatives in villages or buy goods from selected merchants. “These services are welcome because they help me get my upkeep allowance from my son in Lilongwe without bothering to

travel to the bank,” Jumah Adini, a 58-year-old farmer, said, adding that previously he had to budget transport money to travel a distance of over 30 km to access his allowance. “With the shortage of fuel, transport costs have gone up and by the time I returned home, I would have close to 50 per cent of the money spent on travel expenses.” Mobile Money, or Mobile Banking as some call it, was originally launched as M-pesa in Kenya. There, it is believed to have raised ARPU by $0.75 and effectively helped to decrease churn. Malawian operators are diversifying in search of these though it will take time to gauge whether this strategy will be successful. M-Pesa, Airtel Money and TNM’s Mpamba mobile money transfers have been well received in Africa. This follows failed attempts by E-Wallet (formerly Pay265) to do the same a few years ago. ✆

Mallick Mnela

Microsoft donne accès à jeunes entrepreneurs aux technologies Cloud Office 365 MICROSOFT MAROC ONT annoncé l’octroi de 5 000 droits d’accès à Office 365 pour les 5 000 membres du centre des Jeunes Dirigeants. Ainsi, à travers cette initiative initiée par la filiale marocaine du numéro 1 mondial du logiciel, le CJD sera l’une des premières associations à pouvoir bénéficier des dernières technologies du Cloud Microsoft Office 365. Ce partenariat a été annoncé lors de l’événement Africa Hub organisé par le CJD, à Casablanca du 5 au 7 Avril 2012. Le Centre des Jeunes Dirigeants sera l'une des premières organisations non gouvernementales à pouvoir bénéficier d’Office 365 à une aussi grande échelle. « La vocation du CJD est de mettre l’entrepreneur et l’entreprise au centre des préoccupations des décideurs, le but étant de les mettre en réseau et de veiller à leur assurer les conditions les meilleures pour se développer, créer de la valeur et de l’emploi dans une logique de performance globale. L’initiative de Microsoft qui consiste à octroyer au CJD International 5000 droits d’accès à Office 365 au bénéfice de ses membres sur 12 pays est en droite ligne avec notre vision. Nous sommes fiers de compter parmi nos partenaires Microsoft qui, par cette action, réduit sensiblement la fracture numérique, ce qui démontre concrètement son engagement pour faire avancer les économies à l’échelle internationale », souligne M. Zakaria Fahim, President CJD Maroc.

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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S06 CAF 3 2012 Report 03_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:21 Page 35

FINANCE

Mobile Money

Sierra Leone offers new beginnings, and new hope The ways in which mobile money offers a new era of growth to a country once riven by war and financial instability

NEW REVOLUTION is sweeping across Sierra Leone…one that is marked not by violence or bloodshed, but by optimism and opportunities…a revolution fuelled by that remarkable device we call the mobile phone. When in the 1990s, Mobitel established the first mobile telecommunications service in Sierra Leone, the response to it was lukewarm. By 2003, things had begun to change - over 113,000 mobile cellular subscriptions were registered. By 2010, this number had increased twentyfold to two million (1) . Not bad for a country with a population of 5.8mn. But with 60 per cent of them living in poverty, and earning less than US $1 per person per day (2) , how is mobile telecommunications continuing to flourish?

Lowering costs, enhancing adoption In 2001, the Sierra Leone government began opening up the mobile market to private players. Today, there are several mobile operators in the country, including Africell, Comium, Sierratel and Zain (Airtel). Increasing competition between them has helped lower costs, and make services affordable even to the poor. A Sim pack costs only about Le5,000 (just over US$1) today. Handsets are also getting cheaper, as service providers compete to offer specially tailored phones for the less privileged. Another reason for the affordability of mobile services is the regulated hold that the government has over the industry. According to the Telecommunications Act of 2006, all mobile tariff price increases must be approved by the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM). Penalties for noncompliance are strict. In 2010, Africell and Zain were fined for raising the cost of their top-up cards without consulting NATCOM. But it isn’t the government alone that is responsible for the tremendous spike in mobile communications. The phenomenon has taken on a life of its own. For starters, it is supporting numerous business activities, opening up new investment opportunities, and creating plenty of jobs. At every corner, small business stalls are springing up, selling mobile handsets, accessories, top up cards, and even handset charging services. In a country where the rate of unemployment is extremely high, this trend of increasing business opportunities spells good news. Mobile communications are also supporting the country’s multi-million dollar million remittance sector. Citizens no longer need to depend on traditional remittance channels such as friends/relatives (not always secure), or even a professional middleman such as Western Union (can be quite expensive). Mobile services offer a faster, more convenient and safer way of transferring money…which brings us to the latest revolution sweeping across the country.

Mobile money services with Splash and More Magic Mobile money services are not new to the African continent. In many African countries, the lack of banking infrastructure, risk of physically transporting cash, and inconvenience of traveling to distant bank branches have bolstered the popularity of mobile

banking and mobile wallets. Nowhere is this more evident than in Kenya where Safaricom’s M-PESA notched up a whopping 14 million subscribers in four years. Inspired by the success of M-PESA, Sheka Forna, a Sierra Leonean and Sales and Marketing professional, returned to his home country from the UK to set up Splash Mobile Money, Sierra Leone first mobile money service. Splash was created to alleviate some of the pain associated with making every day transactions in a cash based economy – including high transaction costs, low security, reduced productivity and limited transparency. Within just months of its launch, Splash had 25,000 registered users. Today, it has approximately 70,000 users.

Increasing competition between operators in Sierra Leone has helped lower costs, and made services affordable even to the poor

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Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

S06 CAF 3 2012 Report 03_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:21 Page 36

MOBILE MONEY

Mobile Money

Splash Mobile Money services are offered in association with Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), a leading African bank, and MoreMagic Solutions, a leading global provider of mobile commerce and financial services solutions. MoreMagic’s MagicSuite™ of solutions forms the technology backbone behind Splash. It connects users to mobile operators, banks and businesses, and handles money transfers, payments and disbursements through its flexible payments platform m:wallet. Cash is replaced with secure PIN based transactions, and is authenticated based on the KYC, AML, fees and commissions, permissions and channels set by Splash. In addition, the system, branded as Splash-Cash is configured to meet local and regulatory parameters.

Mobile money can enable over millions of citizens living below the poverty line, to save, apply for credit, invest in housing and education, and become entrepreneurs – thereby empowering themselves to rise above their circumstances, and live more meaningful and fulﬁlling lives With Splash, Sierra Leoneans – almost 90 per cent of whom are unbanked – now have access to basic financial services. They can check their balance in real time, cash-in or cash-out at any participating agent outlet or GTB branch, transfer money directly to other Splash customers, purchase products and services, pay bills/salaries, and receive and repay micro loans. One of the biggest advantages of the system is that it is network neutral - it is available across Sierra Leone’s three major mobile operators – Airtel, Africell and Comium. Therefore, a larger number of users can access the service, and transfer money to a wider network of people.

The process is simple. To send money, users need to register with any of Splash’s 100 agents, load money into their Splash account, and send it to another mobile phone user via a simple text message. No bank account is required, and registration is free. The electronic money, once transferred, can be converted to real cash with a Splash agent. Private sector companies in Sierra Leone have taken to Splash in a big way. Hope Micro, one of the largest Microfinance institutions in Sierra Leone, is using Splash for loan disbursements and repayments. Similarly, Transnational SL, the largest provider of satellite television (DStv) in the country has enabled its customers to use Splash to make monthly subscription payments. A juice processing factory, which sources products from an estimated 200 farmers across the country, is also making payments through Splash services.

Empowering the masses For a country that is still recovering from a devastating fifteen-year civil war, Splash Mobile Money offers much more than just the promise of secure and convenient money transfers. It provides tremendous opportunities for bringing the unbanked into the banking fold, and enhancing financial inclusion. Sierra Leone’s infrastructure may be poorly developed; but with Splash, the country can facilitate the flow of money, and increase economic activity across the board. More importantly, it can enable over millions of citizens living below the poverty line, to save, apply for credit, invest in housing and education, and become entrepreneurs – thereby empowering themselves to rise above their circumstances, and live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. ✆

Notes 1. International Telecommunication Union (ITU) – ICT Statistics – Mobile Cellular Subscriptions - http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/ict/statistics/ 2. Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone – Millennium Development Goals Progressive Report 2010 http://www.sl.undp.org/1_doc/SL_MDG_Rpt10.pdf

L'UIT à la recherche d'une nouvelle génération d'entrepreneurs sociaux L'UIT VIENT DE lancer la deuxième édition de son Concours pour jeunes innovateurs, donnant ainsi à de jeunes entrepreneurs sociaux doués la possibilité d'assister à ITU Telecom World 2012 – manifestation placée sous le signe des contacts en réseau et des échanges d'informations – de trouver un financement, d'intéresser des mentors et de bénéficier d'un appui continu. Ce concours, qui est ouvert aux jeunes innovateurs du monde entier âgés de 18 à 25 ans, est un appel à projets ou concepts qui tirent parti des potentialités des TIC pour résoudre des problèmes concrets de développement en rapport avec l'une des huit rubriques du thème "Jeunes innovateurs au service du développement": • Cybersécurité • Education • Autonomisation des femmes • Environnement durable • Soins de santé • Droits de l'homme

36 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

• Transparence • Emploi des jeunes Toutes les propositions sont les bienvenues, qu'il s'agisse de concepts reposant sur des recherches approfondies ou d'activités en cours pour lesquelles on dispose des premiers résultats. Les auteurs des douze propositions les plus brillantes – ayant, d'après le jury, le plus fort impact social et le plus grand potentiel commercial – pourront assister et participer à ITU Telecom World 2012, qui se tiendra du 14 au 18 octobre à Dubaï. Les douze finalistes pourront participer à des sessions de mentorat en tête-àtête avec d'éminents représentants de divers secteurs ainsi qu'à des ateliers pratiques axés sur le développement de compétences d'entrepreneur et auront l'occasion de présenter leurs concepts et projets sur un stand idéalement situé, devant un public influent composé de délégués à World 2012. Ils pourront aussi profiter des nombreuses possibilités de

contacts avec des dirigeants et décideurs des secteurs public et privé, ainsi qu'avec des représentants des milieux universitaires, des spécialistes de prospective et des leaders d'opinion présents à l'événement. Les vainqueurs recevront aussi un prix, d'un montant de 10 000 CHF, qui leur permettra de concrétiser leurs rêves. Ils auront en outre accès au réseau de mentors qui leur offrira un appui continu pendant une année au maximum, seront invités à s'intégrer activement dans la communauté des jeunes innovateurs et à actualiser leurs propositions sur notre site web en présentant à intervalles réguliers des rapports d'activité. "En participant à ce concours, des jeunes gens ambitieux de la génération montante ont l'occasion idéale d'exposer des idées novatrices dans un cadre réellement international et de montrer comment leur réflexion innovante peut contribuer à changer le

Hamadoun Touré, général de l'UIT

Secrétaire

monde, dans le sens d'une amélioration", a déclaré Hamadoun Touré, Secrétaire général de l'UIT. "Le plus important est que la portée de ce programme ira bien au-delà de cet événement pour englober l'édification d'une communauté internationale soudée d'entrepreneurs sociaux très doués travaillant sur des initiatives TIC dans des régions vitales pour les questions de développement auxquelles notre monde est confronté".

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BROADCAST

Mobile TV

Transcoding for the future How video has created challenges on the last-mile operator networks, especially in bandwidth limited countries

Diverse ways of consuming media have created challenges on the last-mile operator networks, especially in bandwidth limited countries

38 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

UST A FEW years ago, some guys who worked together at a Silicon Valley company decided to launch a video site to make it easier for just about anyone to share videos with their friends. Supporting only low-resolutions with low video quality, this small site (YouTube) changed consumers’ general perception of video. Video was no longer something only viewed on TVs; now it was on their computers and soon on their phones. The popularity of nontraditional video soared, bringing with it many new video sites and devices. The professional media production community rapidly realised the value of these sites for promotion. This created problems, for the distribution of this content. Every new site or video-enabled device seemed to include a new codec, container or transmission method. These all required new ways of creating compatible video. Some of the new media sites would take any video format and automatically re-process it to meet required standards, while others demanded that the user upload or transmit an alreadycompatible format. While this was not a problem for consumers, who typically use a few formats shared with their friends, it created significant challenges for professional content creators seeking a wide audience. The web hosts of the sites and the content creators, in attempting to get their videos on every device, while available anytime anywhere with the highest possible video quality, have been trying to keep up with the onslaught of new codecs and formats.

Following is a description of some of the challenges in multiscreen transcoding and some of the technological advances that answer them.

Bandwidth concerns vs. video quality These diverse ways of consuming media have created challenges on the last-mile operator networks, especially in bandwidth limited countries. Selection of codecs and formats has become an even more significant task. Content that is playable on legacy handhelds for example may be deemed unwatchable on later generation devices (iPads for example). Adaptive bitrate streaming allows the operators the flexibility to choose multiple formats, frame rates and bitrates to suit any number of screens. Selecting transcoders that maintain high video quality at all bitrates is crucial to the success of the service. If the content doesn’t look good, users will simply walk away and look for that content elsewhere. Quality of experience is king. Getting high quality transcodes while keeping costs low requires some clever planning and use of technology.

“One-to-many” transcoding “One-to-many” transcoding is the process of reading the source once, doing any common scaling and frame rate conversion operations required, and feeding multiple encoders. Doing this greatly reduces the number of machines required to complete a task with multiple output variants. Joining together common outputs reduces the number of transcodes significantly. This is achieved by reducing the number of tasks required of the transcoding farm (live or filebased). Without “one-to-many” transcoding, an HD source would be scaled to other formats multiple times unnecessarily. Cutting these combined scaling operations greatly reduces the stress on the system. To take advantage of this methodology, the operator of the transcoders must design output profiles with some amount of commonality and configure the transcoders to work accordingly. There is room for improvement in allowing transcoders to automatically take advantage of this type of processing, but it should

If the content looks good, users will stay; quality of experience is king (Photo: Oluniyi Ajao)

S06 CAF 3 2012 Report 03_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:21 Page 39

BROADCAST

Mobile TV

Guy Li-Ran, Director, Regional Solutions, Harmonic

always remain a configurable option as it will increase the latency for some use cases.

Re-packaging The second solution to the problem of scale in transcoding is the ability to re-wrap and pass-through video and audio essences. As the number of video-enabled devices and container types increases, the common thread between them is the codecs. MPEG-2, H.264, AAC, and AC-3 currently represent the majority of video and audio codecs supported on any type of device.

Suppose there are three sets of file wrapping (or containers) for web variants with three rates each. This is required because while Silverlight, Quicktime, and Flash all support H.264 and AAC, they use different container types and store metadata differently. The future transcoder should be able to encode one H.264 video stream and one AAC audio stream, and then simply re-package this stream three times for the three different player types. This again significantly reduces the size of the transcoding horsepower by doing only three encodes and nine muxes (“wrapping” tasks), instead of nine encodes and nine wraps separately. The most dramatic savings offered by repackaging versus transcoding is in regards to the adaptive bit-rate streaming technologies. Adobe, Microsoft, and Apple have developed different containerisation and packaging technologies, which use multiple layers of identical video and audio essences. As a side note, MPEG DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP) is a developing ISO Standard. As the name suggests, DASH is a standard for adaptive streaming over HTTP that has the potential to replace existing proprietary technologies like Microsoft Smooth Streaming, Adobe Dynamic Streaming, and Apple HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). The future of transcoding lies in the ability to keep up with new formats while more efficiently using and repurposing assets. While superior transcoding technology is vital for success, strategic implementation of that technology is equally important. “One-tomany” transcoding, in most cases, is a different way of implementing technology that already exists, while re-packaging is a familiar concept that has not been widely implemented. The combination of these two approaches can create a reasonably-sized and manageable transcoding farm capable of taking on new formats and containers without growing exponentially. ✆

Guy Li-Ran, Director, Regional Solutions, Harmonic Inc.

Les projets et opportunités d'investissement dans le secteur des TIC LES DIRIGEANTS DES secteurs public et privé qui assistent au Sommet Connecter le monde arabe, organisé par l'UIT au mars 2012, ont mis en évidence des débouchés commerciaux, à hauteur de plus de 46 milliards USD, pour de nouveaux projets régionaux conçus pour améliorer l'accès aux TIC et aux applications et services correspondants dans toute la région. Les possibilités d'investissement ainsi mises en évidence sont axées sur les grandes priorités de la région, à savoir la construction d'une autoroute régionale arabe des TIC, le développement des cyberservices, l'autonomisation des populations locales par le biais de la formation et du renforcement des capacités, l'utilisation des TIC au service de la création d'emplois pour les jeunes, le renforcement de la cybersécurité et la protection du patrimoine et de la culture arabes. Ce Sommet a accueilli quelque 540 participants de 26 pays, dont sept chefs d'Etat ou de gouvernement, 26 ministres et des représentants de 18 organisations internationales ou régionales, ainsi que 99 représentants d'entreprises du secteur privé et d'autres parties prenantes. Cette rencontre avait pour objet de parvenir à un consensus régional sur de nouvelles stratégies destinées à dynamiser le

déploiement des infrastructures, à élargir l'accès aux populations marginalisées et à stimuler l'innovation et l'emploi dans l'ensemble de la région des Etats arabes. La cybersécurité et les transactions électroniques Le Dr Hamadoun Touré, Secrétaire général de l'UIT a déclaré, "Comme en témoigne l'énergie dégagée par la région, on constate que le monde arabe devient un pôle technologique de premier plan et l'un des moteurs du secteur mondial des TIC. Un nombre croissant de nouvelles entreprises les plus prometteuses de ce secteur sont désormais basées dans la région et je peux avancer sans crainte de me tromper que, d'ici dix ans, ce secteur pourrait devenir celui qui, à lui seul, emploie le plus de jeunes gens doués". L'Organisation arabe des technologies de l'information et de la communication (AICTO) a proposé la réalisation de plusieurs projets, notamment le lancement d'une initiative régionale sur la cybersécurité visant à promouvoir les transactions électroniques sans risque et sécurisées, la mise en oeuvre d'un projet de radiodiffusion numérique et d'un nouveau projet visant à mettre en place des centres de cyberaccessibilité pour dispenser un enseignement et assurer une formation ainsi

qu'une reconversion concernant l'utilisation des sites web en arabe, en partenariat avec le Consortium W3C, et l'élaboration d'un cadre juridique commun relatif à la cyberaccessibilité dans la région des Etats arabes. En outre, plusieurs pays, à savoir Djibouti, la Mauritanie et le Soudan, ont présenté des possibilités d'investissement intéressantes dans le secteur des TIC, pour lesquelles ils recherchent des partenaires. Les projets proposés par Djibouti visent essentiellement à améliorer l'infrastructure de base, à mettre en place des liaisons TIC avec des hôpitaux et des établissements scolaires et à encourager les jeunes filles à suivre une formation dans le secteur des technologies. La Mauritanie recherche des partenaires en vue d'améliorer ses liaisons dorsales et de faciliter la mise en oeuvre d'un projet de ville intelligente (Technopole) ainsi que le lancement de nouvelles initiatives en matière de cybergouvernement. Pour sa part, le Soudan recherche de nouveaux partenaires en vue de l'exécution de nouveaux projets de télécentres en collaboration avec l'Inde et d'un projet de visioconférence destiné à améliorer les services de soins de santé et du lancement de nouvelles initiatives visant à aider les personnes handicapées.

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

S07 CAF 3 2012 Buyers Guide_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:22 Page 40

BROADCAST Buyers’ Guide Guide de l’acheteur 20 1 2 The guide to the major international manufacturers in all areas of broadcasting and their agents throughout Africa. Classifieds - Manufacturers listed under type Suppliers - With Agents’ names Local Agents - Index

Ce guide contient une liste des principaux fabricants internationaux de matériel de l’audiovisuelle ainsi que leurs distributeurs en Afrique. Liste des produits avec fabricants par produits Liste des fabricants avec noms des distributeurs en Afrique Liste des distributeurs locaux

Classifieds Amplifiers

Digital Video Equipment

Radiocommunications

Comtech EF Data Corp. KATHREIN France

African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. DTL Broadcast Ltd. Harmonic Quantel Limited WTS Broadcast

Icom (UK) Ltd. KATHREIN France Memotec Inc. Spectrum Communications

Distribution & Links

Icom (UK) Ltd. KATHREIN France

Antennas - Industrial Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. KATHREIN France

Audio - Other DTL Broadcast Ltd. Ghielmetti AG Netia

Automation and Control Harris Systems Ltd. Netia

Batteries and Chargers Spectrum Communications

Broadcast Facilities Build & Operation Ghielmetti AG GlobeCast PCCW Global Ltd.

Broadcast Towers & Masts, Channel Combiner Units & Filters

African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. Afrikanet Oxford Consultech GlobeCast PCCW Global Ltd.

Down Converters AnaCom Inc. Axon Digital Design Comtech EF Data Corp.

Editing Systems Quantel Limited WTS Braodcast

Encoders/Decoders African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. DTL Broadcast Ltd. Harmonic

Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd.

Filters

Cables & Cable Equipment

KATHREIN France

Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. Falcon Electronics (PTY) Ltd KATHREIN France Reichle and De-Massari (R&M)

Graphics Systems

Camcorders WTS Broadcast

Cameras - Lenses

Quantel Limited

Headend Equipment African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. Harmonic Harris Systems Ltd. Newtec Cy n.v

WTS Broadcast

LNBs

Colour Correctors

AnaCom Inc.

Axon Digital Design Quantel Limited

Microwave Links

Connectors Falcon Electronics (PTY) Ltd KATHREIN France Netia Reichle and De-Massari (R&M)

Consultancy Netia TKM Maestro Ltd.

Decoders Harmonic

Digital Glue / Distribution Cabinets Axon Digital Design

Receivers - Domestic

Receivers - Industrial KATHREIN France

Satellite Communications African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. Afrikanet Oxford Consultech Amos-SpaceCom AnaCom Inc. Applied Satellite Technology SA (Pty) Ltd CET Teleport Comtech EF Data Corp. DCS Co. GlobeCast Hellas Sat Consortium Ltd. Intelsat Memotec Inc. Milano Teleport S.p.A. Newtec Cy n.v PCCW Global Ltd. SkyVision Global Networks Space Television Thrane & Thrane A/S

Satellite Receivers AnaCom Inc. Comtech EF Data Corp. Harmonic KATHREIN France Newtec Cy n.v Space Television

OB Vans DTL Broadcast Ltd. GlobeCast Harris Systems Ltd.

Transmitters and Antennas AnaCom Inc. Applied Satellite Technology SA (Pty) Ltd DCS Co. KATHREIN France Memotec Inc.

Turnkey Systems African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. Afrikanet Oxford Consultech Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. Harris Systems Ltd. Netia SkyVision Global Networks TKM Maestro Ltd.

Uninteruptible Power Supplies Falcon Electronics (PTY) Ltd

Video - Other

Standards Converters

VSATs

Axon Digital Design

Afrikanet Oxford Consultech Amos-SpaceCom AnaCom Inc. DCS Co. Memotec Inc. Newtec Cy n.v PCCW Global Ltd. SkyVision Global Networks Space Television

Mobile Broadcasting Transmitter Centres

Harris Systems Ltd. Quantel Limited

Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. Falcon Electronics (PTY) Ltd Ghielmetti AG KATHREIN France

Space Television

SMATV - Systems & Components

Newsroom Systems

Test & Measurement

DTL Broadcast Ltd. Ghielmetti AG Intelsat

Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. Memotec Inc. Spectrum Communications

DCS Co.

DCS Co. Falcon Electronics (PTY) Ltd Intelsat Memotec Inc. Newtec Cy n.v PCCW Global Ltd. Redwood Technologies Ltd. Reichle and De-Massari (R&M) SkyVision Global Networks Space Television Spectrum Communications Thrane & Thrane A/S TKM Maestro Ltd.

Studio Furnitures Ghielmetti AG

Telecommunications Afrikanet Oxford Consultech Amos-SpaceCom AnaCom Inc. Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. Applied Satellite Technology SA (Pty) Ltd CET Teleport

VTR - Professional WTS Broadcast

Suppliers AAE Systems Inc. 642 North Pastoria Avenue Sunnyvale CA 94085 USA Tel: +1 408 7321710 Fax: +1 408 7323095 Web: www.aaesys.com E-mail: sales@aaesys.com

Advantech 380 Fairview Way Milpitas CA 95035, USA Tel: +1 408 5193898 Web: www.advantech.com

40 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

African Union Communication (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 4187 Rietualleirand Pretoria, 0174 South Africa Tel: +27 12 0018670 Fax: +27 12 3474376 Web: www.aucom.co.za E-mail: info@aucom.com.za

Afrikanet Oxford Consultech Oxford Culham Innovation Centre Science Center Building D5 Oxford England OX14 3DB United Kingdom Tel: +44 1865 408365 Fax: +44 207 9006479 Web: www.afrikanet.net E-mail: contact@afrikanet.net Agents:

Angola - Meng-Engenharia, LDA Afrikanet Angola Cameroon - Afrikanet Cemac Online Chad - Presta-Bist Telecom, Afrikanet Chad

Congo R.D. - Computer Network Corp Afrikanet DRC Cote D’Ivoire - Airti-Afrikanet Kenya - Afrikanet Kenya

Alcatel-Lucent Alcatel-Lucent 3 av. Octave Gr ard 75007 Paris France Tel: +33 1 40764924 Fax: +33 1 40761400 Web: www.alcatel-lucent.com E-mail: regine.coqueran@alcatel-lucent.com Agents:

Egypt - Alcatel-Lucent Egypt

S07 CAF 3 2012 Buyers Guide_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:22 Page 41

BROADCAST BUYERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GUIDE 2012

Amos-SpaceCom

7 Menachem Begin Street Ramat Gan 52521 Israel Tel: +972 3 7551000 Fax: +972 3 7551001 Web: www.amos-spacecom.com E-mail: amos-info@amos-spacecom.com

Arqiva

Corning Inc.

Ghielmetti AG

Crawley Court Winchester SO21 2QA United Kingdom Tel: +44 1962 823434 Web: www.arqiva.com E-mail: wireless.access@arqiva.com

One Riverfront Plaza, Corning New York, 14831 USA Tel: +1 607 9749000 Web: www.corning.com E-mail: inquiries@corning.com

Industriestrasse 6 Biberist 4562 Switzerland Tel: +41 32 6711313 Fax: +41 32 6711314 Web: www.ghielmetti.ch E-mail: info@ghielmetti.ch

South Africa - Corning Products SA (Pty) Ltd

Asia Broadcast Satellite Limited

AnaCom Inc. USA Tel: +1 571 2947456 Fax: +1 408 7162538 Web: www.anacominc.com E-mail: sales@anacominc.com Agents:

South Africa - Stratosat Datacom (Pty) Ltd.

Andrew Wireless Solutions Africa (Pty) Ltd. 11 Commerce Crescent West Eastgate PO Box 786117 Sandton 2146 South Africa Tel: +27 11 7196000 Fax: +27 11 4482500 Web: www.andrew.com www.commscope.com/andrew E-mail: asa@andrew.com

Applied Satellite Technology SA (Pty) Ltd 102 Willem Botma Street Wierda Park Centurion 0046 South Africa Tel: +27 12 0018010 Web: www.ast-sa.co.za E-mail: info@satcomms.com

Unit 1701 Al Thuraya Tower 1 Dubai Media City, Dubai 502129 United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 4542677 Fax: +971 4 4542655 Web: www.absatellite.net E-mail: salesmea@absatellite.com Asia Broadcast Satellite (ABS) is one of the fastest growing satellite operators in the world. ABS offers a complete range of solutions including DTH, CATV, Cellular Backhaul, VSAT and Internet Backbone Services. ABS operates four satellites with its fifth Satellite (ABS 2) in Construction and scheduled to launch in 2013.

Axon Digital Design PO Box 48, Gilze, 5126 BB The Netherlands Tel: +31 161850 450 Fax: +31 161850 499 Web: www.axon.tv E-mail: info@axon.tv Agents:

Egypt - Etaco South Africa - Jasco ICT - Broadcast Solutions South Africa - Neimeyer A.J.

CET Teleport Bexen 2, Aerzen, 31855 Germany Tel: +49 5154 9371500 Fax: +49 5154 9371010/3524 Web: www.cetteleport.com E-mail: info@cetteleport.com

2/4 Anwar Al Mofty Street Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt Tel: +20 2 24006900 Fax: +20 2 24014566 Web: www.dcs-eg.com E-mail: info@dcs-eg.com sales@dcs-eg.com

2114 West 7th Street Tempe, Arizona, 85281 USA Tel: +1 480 3332200 Fax: +1 480 3332540 Web: www.comtechefdata.com E-mail: sales@comtechefdata.com Comtech EF Data is the leader in satellite bandwidth efficiency and link optimization. Our products include Advanced VSAT Solutions, Modems, RAN & WAN Optimization, Managed Bandwidth and RF products. We are a technology innovator, providing exceptional product quality and reliabilty. Our solutions enable users to reduce OPEX/CAPEX and increase throughout.

Morocco - Abchir SARL

GL Communications Inc.

Agents:

Libya - Ayman Hamza

DTL Broadcast Ltd. Johnson Estate, Silverdale Road Hayes, UB3 3BA United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 88135200 Fax: +44 20 88135022 Web: www.dtl-broadcast.com E-mail: sultan@dtl-broadcast.com DTL Broadcast market extensive ranges of rack mount and standalone miniature video and audio converters, distributors and and audio embedders/de-embedders. If you work with formats such as SMPTE SDI, composite and component video, AES and analogue audio, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to the right place! Just call +44 (20) 88135200

818 West Diamond Avenue - Third Floor Gaithersburg 20878 USA Tel: +1 301 6704784 Fax: +1 301 6709187 Web: www.gl.com E-mail: gl-info@gl.com

GlobeCast 5, all e Gustave Eiffel Issy les Moulineaux 92136 France Tel: +33 1 55952600 Fax: +33 1 55952700 Web: www.globecast.com E-mail: info@globecast.com Agents:

Eutelsat 70, rue Balard, 75502 Paris Cedex 15 France Tel: +33 1 53984747 Fax: +33 1 53983700 Web: www.eutelsat.com E-mail: booking@eutelsat.fr Agents:

Algeria - Orascom Telecom Algerie Congo R.D. - Imhotep Solutions Afrique Egypt - Egyptsat Egypt - Global Beam Communications

Falcon Electronics (Pty) Ltd

Kenya - GlobeCast Nairobi South Africa - GlobeCast Africa

Grass Valley 475 Brannan Street Suite 400 San Francisco California 94107 USA Tel: +1 415 8526500 Fax: +1 415 8546569 Web: www.grassvalley.com

Harmonic

Comtech EF Data Corp.

ArabSat

Diplomatic Quarter PO Box 1038 Riyadh 11431 Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 1 4820000 Fax: +966 1 4887999 Web: www.arabsat.com E-mail: info@arabsat.com

Agents:

DCS Co.

Agents:

Cameroon - Adsnet Congo.D.R - NITD Solutions SPRL Kenya- Space-Communication Ltd Senegal - Systemes PV South Africa - Eltekon satellite Consulting & Services Zambia - Network Consultants Limited

Agents:

8 Simmonds Street, Cnr, Webber Street Selby, Johannesburg, 2001 South Africa Tel: +27 11 6301000 Fax: +27 11 6301202 Web: www.falconelectronics.co.za E-mail: grant@fe.co.za Falcon Electronics (Pty) Ltd is a leading supplier in southern Africa of Data Center Network and Racking Equipment; Communication Solutions; and Data Center Power. Falcon has been in the IT industry forever 25 years and has extensive industry experience, with the emphasis on supplying quality products and services. Branches in South Africa: Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth Agents:

South Africa - Falcon Electronics (Pty) Ltd

4300 North First Street San Jose California 95134 USA Tel: +1 408 5422500 Fax: +1 408 5422510 Web: www.harmonicinc.com E-mail: info@harmonicinc.com Agents:

Israel - Harmonic

Harris Systems Ltd. 1010 Eskdale Road Winnersh, Wokingham Berkshire RG41 5TS United Kingdom Tel: +44 118 964 8000 Fax: +44 118 964 8054 Web: www.broadcast.harris.com E-mail: sales.emea@harris.com

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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BROADCAST BUYERS’ GUIDE 2012

Hellas Sat Consortium Ltd.

PO Box 22817, Nicosia Cyprus, 1524 Greece Tel: +357 22 861400 Fax: +357 22 341500 Web: www.hellas-sat.net E-mail: d.stathopoulou@hellas-sat.net sales@hellas-sat.net

Hughes Network Systems LLC Office 1206, City Tower 1 Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 3326300 Fax: +971 4 3326292 E-mail: hughesam@emirates.net.ae

Icom (UK) Ltd. Blacksole House The Boulevard Altira Park, Herne Bay Kent, CT6 69Z United Kingdom Tel: +44 1227 743030 Fax: +44 1227 743090 Web: www.icomuk.co.uk E-mail: export@icomuk.co.uk Whether a few portable radios for local area coverage or larger more-complex systems, ICOM UK have a solution for you. ICOM UK LTD are distributors of ICOM High-Quality Radio Communications equipment. Available in a range of HF, VHF and UHF options in both analogue and digital formats.

Irdeto

Netia

Quantel Limited

PO Box 3047 Hoofddorp, 2130 The Netherlands Tel: +31 23 5562222 Fax: +31 23 5562240 Web: www.irdeto.com Agents:

377 Chemin de Farjou Claret, 34270 France Tel: +33 4 67590807 Fax: +33 4 67590820 Web: www.netia.com E-mail: i.michoux@netia.com

South Africa - Irdeto, Africa

Agents:

KATHREIN France

Algeria - ATEP SARL Egypt - Etaco South Africa - Soundfusion (Pty) Ltd.

Turnpike Road Newbury Berkshire RG14 2NX United Kingdom Tel: +44 1635 48222 Fax: +44 1635 815815 Web: www.quantel.com E-mail: marketing@quantel.com

7 Rue des Gardes, Verri res-le-Buisson 91370, France Tel: +33 1 69536453 Fax: +33 1 69536454 Web: www.kathrein.fr E-mail: kathrein@kathrein.fr

Inmarsat 99 City Road, London EC1Y 1AX United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 77281777 Fax: +44 20 77281142 Web: www.inmarsat.com E-mail: customer_care@inmarsat.com

Intelsat

No. 12 Roman Ridge St., Roman Ridge PO Box 0641, Osu Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 302 224715/770833/769348 Fax: +233 302 227802 Web: www.knetgh.com E-mail: info@knetgh.com

Memotec Inc. 7755 Henri Bourassa Blvd. West Montreal, Quebec, H4S 1P7, Canada Tel: + 1 514 7384781 Fax: + 1 514 7384436 Web: www.memotec.com E-mail: communication@memotec.com

Milano Teleport S.p.A.

Via Cascina Nuova, 1 Lacchiarella, Milan 20084, Italy Tel: +39 02 89085000 Fax: +39 02 90032728 Web: www.milanoteleport.com E-mail: info@milanoteleport.com sales@milanotelport.com Milano Teleport S.p.A. operates the largest independent teleport in Italy, founded in 1997 its business spans from DTH and DTT TV Broadcasting to Broadband Wireless and Maritime services worldwide. For the Media & Broadcast Industry, Milano Teleport provides Satellite Services Worldwide (DTH, DTT, Contribution Links, Turn Around Services and Video over IP Connections) leveraging its modern Uplink Facility and its massive fibre connections with European main carriers.

MultiChoice 3400 International Drive, NW Washington D.C, 20008, USA Tel: +1 202 9446800 Fax: +1 202 9447898 Web: www.intelsat.com

251 Oak Avenue, Ferndale Randburg, 2194, South Africa Tel: +27 11 2893000 Fax: +27 11 5774901 Web: www.multichoice.co.za

Agents:

South Africa - Intelsat

South Africa - MultiChoice Durban

42 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

Rogers House 5 President John Kennedy Street Port Louis Mauritius Web: www.rascomstar.com E-mail: assistant@rascomstar.com

K-NET Limited

iDirect Technologies 13865 Sunrise Valley Drive Suite 100 Herndon Virginia, 20171 USA Tel: +1 8663450983 Web: www.idirect.net

Newtec Cy n.v

Rascomstar-QAF

Laarstraat 5 Sint-Niklaas 9100, Belgium Tel: +32 3 7806500 Fax: +32 3 7806549 Web: www.newtec.eu E-mail: sales@newtec.eu

O3b Networks Limited Johan van Oldenbarneveltlaan 5 Den Haag 2582 The Netherlands Tel: +31 70 7116500 Web: www.o3bnetworks.com

Pace PLC Victoria Road Saltaire West Yorkshire England BD18 3LF United Kingdom Tel: +44 1274 532000 Fax: +44 1274 532010 Web: www.pace.com

PCCW Global Ltd.

Redwood Technologies Ltd. The Redwood Building Broad Lane Bracknell Berkshire RG12 9GU United Kingdom Tel: +44 1344 304344 Fax: +44 1344 304345 Web: www.redwoodtech.com E-mail: info@redwoodtech.com

Reichle and De-Massari (R&M) Binztrasse 31 Wetzikon 8622 Switzerland Tel: +41 44 9338111 Fax: +41 44 9304941 Web: www.rdm.com E-mail: hq@rdm.com

SES Broadband Services Château de Betzdorf Betzdorf 6815 Luxembourg Tel: +352 7107251 Web: www.ses.com Agents:

South Africa - SES Broadband Services

Signalhorn 33rd Floor PCCW Tower Taikoo Place Quarry Bay Hong Kong Tel: +1 703 6211590 Fax: +1 703 3732612 Web: www.pccwglobal.com E-mail: africa@pccwglobal.com PCCW Global is an operating division of HKT, Hong Kong’s premier telecommunications service provider which is majority-owned by PCCW Limited. With teams based in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and America, PCCW Global serves the voice and data needs of multinational enterprises. Covering more than 1,800 cities and 120 countries, the PCCW Global network supports a portfolio of integrated global communications solutions. To learn more about PCCW Global, please visit www.pccwglobal.com

Illerstrasse 15 Backnang 71522 Germany Tel: +49 7191 9710 Fax: +49 7191 971100 Web: www.signalhorn.com E-mail: info@signalhorn.com

SkyVision Global Networks Park Deniv 21C Yegia Kapayim Street PO Box 10255 Petah Tikva 49002 Israel Tel: +972 39230311 Web: www.sky-vision.net

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BROADCAST BUYERS’ GUIDE 2012

SkyVision Global Networks Kinetic Business Centre Theobald Street, Borehamwood Hertfordshire WD6 4PJ United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 83871750 Fax: +44 20 83874004 Web: www.sky-vision.net E-mail: info@sky-vision.net

Soicex Elextronique 5, Avenue des Cr tes BP 39, 92139 Ramonville St-Agne 31520, France Tel: +33 5 61733072 Fax: +33 5 61756040 Web: www.soicex.com E-mail: contact@soicex.com

Spectrum Communications

A4-42, Saif Zone, Sharjah United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 6 5572592 Fax: +971 6 5572593 Web: www.spectrummea.com Spectrum Communications is a leading manufacturer of Microwave Radio Systems and Provided of Total Turnkey Transmission Solution to Network Operators in the Middle East and Africa. Partnering with Comnet SARL provides Spectrum the ability to provide complete Alternate Wind Turbine and Solar Panel based Solution for Remote Locations.

Thrane & Thrane A/S

Space Television

Space House, 78 Republic Road Randburg, PO Box 9317 Johannesburg, 2125, South Africa Tel: +27 11 7819900 Fax: +27 11 7819908 Web: www.spacestream.co.za Email: sales@spacetv.co.za

Lundtoftegardsvej 93 D, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark Tel: +45 39 558800 Fax: +45 39 558888 Web: www.thrane.com E-mail: info@thrane.com EXPLORER BGAN Satellite terminals from Thrane & Thrane are mobile broadband units enabling broadcasters to transmit live from any hotspot in the world from the minute they arrive, EXPLORER terminals combined with a low bit-rate video codec provides a mobile, cost efficient and easy to use solution for mobile SNG.

Thuraya

WTS Broadcast

PO Box 33344, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 2 6422222 Fax: +971 2 6317755 Web: www.thuraya.com

Welbeck House 1st Floor 66-67 Wells Street London W1T 3PY United Kingdom Tel: +44 207 8710700 Web: www.wtsbroadcast.com A dealer and stockist of a wide range of specialist broadcast and production products used by the professional media industry, C2S Nigeria supplies both new and used equipment to customers throughout Africa. We offer equipment demonstrations, training, advice, engineering support and repair from our showroom and workshop in Lagos.

TKM Maestro Ltd. PO Box 9697, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya Tel: +254 20 3000253 Fax: +254 20 4877487 Web: www.tkmmaestro.co.ke E-mail: info@tmmaestro.com

Viewsat Building CH1, Normandy Business Park Cobbett Hill Road, Guilford, GU3 2AA United Kingdom Tel: +44 1483 235400 Fax: +44 208 1814591 Web: www.viewsat.eu E-mail: safia@viewsat.eu

WIOCC

Agents:

Nigeria - C2S Nigeria

Yahsat Al Falah Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 2 5100000 Fax: +971 2 5100001 Web: www.yahsat.ae E-mail: info@yahsat.ae Agents:

Citadel Building - 2nd Floor, Wing A Muthithi Road, Westlands PO Box 14137, Nairobi, 00800, Kenya Tel: +254 20 3746594/5 Web: www.wiocc.net E-mail: info@wiocc.net

South Africa - Star Network Marketing Services Company

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ENTERPRISE

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OPERATOR

OPERATOR ENTERPRISE

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OPERATOR

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ENTERPRISE

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OPERATOR

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WWW.CLOUDAFRICASUMMIT.COM Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

S07 CAF 3 2012 Buyers Guide_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:22 Page 44

BROADCAST BUYERS’ GUIDE 2012

Agents ALGERIA

COTE D’IVOIRE

MOROCCO

ATEP SARL

Airti-Afrikanet Cote D’Ivoire

Abchir SARL

2 Rue Abderrezak Belidam Hydra Alger 16000 Tel: +213 213 75714

PO Box 989 Abidjan, ABJ 28 Tel: + 225 24 493779 E-mail: airti@afrikanet.net

15 Angle Bd D’Alexandrie et Rue d’Armenie Quartier des Hopitaux Tel: +212 22864451 Fax: +212 22864450 Web: www.abchir.ma E-mail: salima@abchir.ma

Orascom Telecom Algerie Alger Tel: +213 70 900001 Web: www.otalgerie.com

ANGOLA Meng-Engenharia, LDA Afrikanet Angola Rua Kimpemba 23-1B Cabinda Tel: +244 913 140075 Fax: +244 926 240759 E-mail: meng@Afrikanet.net

CAMEROON Adsnet Bld. de la Liberte, Immeuble Kassap Seme etage port 4 PO Box 12319 Douala Tel: +237 33434837 Fax: +237 99934601 E-mail: jg.jiotsa@adsnet.cm

Afrikanet Cemac Online BP 25240 Younde Tel: +237 22621739/+44 56 01569712 Web: www.magnetelecom.com E-mail: cemac@afrikanet.net

CHAD Presta-Bist Telecom Afrikanet Chad Avenue Charles De Gaulles PO Box 587 N Djamena Tel: +235 66 299378 E-mail: prestabist@afrikanet.net

CONGO R.D. Computer Network Corp AFRIKANET DRC

EGYPT Alcatel-Lucent Egypt Building 144 Smart Village KM 28 Cairo - Alex Desert Road PO Box 5, Giza, 12577 Tel: +20 2 35395555 Fax: +20 2 35392330

Egyptsat 24 Ebour Buildings Salah Salem Road Cairo, 11371 Tel: +20 2 2612787 Fax: +20 2 4053949 E-mail: sales@egyptsat.com

Etaco 15, Nasser El Thawra Street Al Haram Cairo, 12111 Tel: +20 25865270 Fax: +20 12 2126503/27794989 E-mail: mhalawa@ etacoegypt.com

Global Beam Communications Building B115 Ground Floor Smart Village PO Box 12577, Giza Tel: +20 2 35346040 Fax: +20 2 35346042 E-mail: sales@ global-beam.com

ISRAEL Harmonic 10 Ha’amal Street, Park Afek Ros Ha’Ayin, 48092 Tel: +972 3 9007777/800 Fax: +972 3 9007766 Web: www.harmonicinc.com

KENYA

NIGERIA C2S Nigeria 5b, Afolabi Awosanya Street Off Agbaoku Street Opebi, Ikeja Lagos Tel: +234 816 4948127 Web: www.c2snigeria.com E-mail: sales@c2snigeria.com

SENEGAL

SOUTH AFRICA Corning Products SA (Pty) Ltd Perseverance Industrial Park 25 Kohler Road Port Elizabeth, 6209 Tel: +27 41 4046400 Fax: +27 41 40 6440

Eltekon Satellite Consulting & Services Mogale City 1746 Tel: + 27 83 2836861 E-mail: kevin@eltekonsat.com

Falcon Electronics (Pty) Ltd 8 Simmonds Street Johannesburg South Africa Tel: +27 11 6301000 Fax: +27 11 6301202 Web: www.falconelectronics.co.za E-mail: grant@fe.co.za Penthouse Level Mentone Centre, 1 Park Road Richmond, 2092 Tel: +27 11 4822790 Fax: +27 11 4822792

Imhotep Solutions Afrique

Nairobi, Afrikanet Kenya

Intelsat

7th Floor Purshottam Place Chiromo Road, PO Box 66217 Westlands Nairobi 00800 Tel: +254 20 3601616 E-mail: contact@afrikanet

138 West Street Second Floor, Sandton Tel: +27 11 5354700 Fax: +27 11 8847269

44 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

LIBYA Ayman Hamza Tripoli Tel: +218 92 3457498 E-mail: bakar23@hotmail.com

Neimeyer A.J. 8 Bompas Road Dunkeld West 2196 Johannesburg The Pivot Block E 2nd Floor Monte Casino Boulevard Fourways Johannesburg

GlobeCast Africa

Boulevard du 30 Juin Residence Taba Congo App.8 Commune de la Gombe Tel: +243 15102447 E-mail: freddy.mangala@ nitdsolutions.com

KwaZulu Natal Office The Glass House 309 Umhlanga Rocks Drive Umhlanga Rocks 4319 Tel: + 27 31 5835600 Fax: + 27 31 5835640

SES Broadband Services

PO Box 1069 Sarit Centre Nairobi, 00606 Tel: +254 20 2720011/ 712 135664

NITD Solutions SPRL

MultiChoice Durban

Dakar Senegal Tel: +221 33 8259755 Fax: +221 77 5698017 E-mail: contact@systemespv.com

4765 Avenue colonel Ebeya Kinshasa Tel: +243 998 204833 E-mail: cnc@afrikanet.net

CONGO D.R.

Cnr Alexandra Avenue 2nd Road Midrand 1685 Tel: +27 11 2661500 Fax: +27 11 2661532 Web: www.jasco.co.za

Systemes PV

GlobeCast Nairobi

Tel: +243 85 3700010 Web: www.imhotepsolutions.com

Jasco ICT Broadcast Solutions

Irdeto Africa Ferndale Forum 148 Bram Fisher Drive Randburg, 2194 PO Box 4950, Randburg, 2125 Tel: +27 11 2893856 Fax: +27 11 8862042 E-mail: ssanders@irdeto.com

Soundfusion (Pty) Ltd. Pinegowrie PO Box 3073 Gauteng Afrique du Sud 2123 Tel: +27 11 8380620/ 21/22/23/24 Fax: +27 11 8380625 E-mail: soundf@global.co.za

Star Network Marketing Services Company Block A 2nd Floor Unit 51 & 52 Millennium Business Park Edison Way Cape Town, 8000 Tel: +27 21 5550981 Fax: +27 21 5550882 E-mail: africa@yahsat.ae

Stratosat Datacom (Pty) Ltd. 24/26 Spartan Road Aeroport Ext. 21 Spartan 1619 Tel: +27 11 9740006 Fax: +27 11 9740068 Web: www.stratosat.co.za E-mail: alan@stratosat.co.za

ZAMBIA Network Consultants Limited 6879 Olympia Park Extension Postnet #343 P/Bag E891 Lusaka Tel: +260 211 290674 E-mail: chewe@netcon.co.zm

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EQUIPMENT

Q-KON enhances VSAT network with iDX 3.0 upgrade Q-KON, A 1ST tier satellite network operator in the African market, has upgraded to iDirect's iDX 3.0 software, enabling it to integrate TDMA and SCPC connectivity on a single network, and offering enterprise service providers an efficient and scalable VSAT solution. With iDX 3.0, Q-KON has improved the affordability and performance of its service platform to help service providers expand into remote areas more cost-effectively. For many service providers, entering rural markets is expensive due to limited bandwidth resources and hardware costs. Q-KON solves this problem by extending the reach of its terrestrial MPLS network to connect VPN, VoIP, and other core enterprise applications from headquarters locations to remote offices across Africa with more efficiency and less risk.

Dawie de Wet, CEO, Q-KON

(GQoS) bandwidth allocation algorithm gives Q-KON and its service provider customers a sophisticated level of control over bandwidth management, as well as the flexibility to

"To expand to rural markets efficiently, satellite connectivity is a must, which is why we are proud to be one of the first operators to implement an iDX 3.0 hub in South Africa. With iDX 3.0, service providers can lower their bandwidth and hardware costs while significantly improving performance. For enterprise customers, that means expanding in the African market affordably and with less risk." - Dawie de Wet, CEO, Q-KON Q-KON upgraded to iDX 3.0 because it maximises the scalability that service providers need to stay competitive in the dynamic African economy. With iDX 3.0's SCPC Return capability, Q-KON customers can keep operating costs low while preserving the flexibility to switch between TDMA and SCPC based on dynamic bandwidth requirements. Additionally, iDX 3.0's Group Quality of Service

prioritize traffic based on application, customer type, and location. "To expand to rural markets efficiently, satellite connectivity is a must, which is why we are proud to be one of the first operators to implement an iDX 3.0 hub in South Africa. With iDX 3.0, service providers can lower their bandwidth and hardware costs while significantly improving performance. For

iDX 3.0 ensures that Q-KON can continue to meet its customers' needs regardless of the geographic and economic challenges they face. Whether a service provider requires dedicated SCPC bandwidth or access to a more efficient TDMA network, the technology they use should not limit their options. iDX 3.0 is about giving service providers the tools to make strategic network decisions that support their growth without having to sacrifice affordability or service quality." - Majdi Atout, Regional Vice President of Sales - Middle East and Africa, iDirect enterprise customers, that means expanding in the African market affordably and with less risk," said Dawie de Wet, CEO, Q-KON.

www.qkon.com

Edge-Core Networks offers switch to IPv6-ready infrastructure switch engine with double the memory and flash space. The other EDGE-CORE NETWORKS offers ES3528MV2, a Layer 2 Fast Ethernet key difference is support for expanded temperature range for standalone switch consisting of 24 100BASE-TX ports and 4 Gigabit regions with extreme climate conditions. Both the ES3528MV2 and combo (RJ-45/SFP) ports, as well as the ES3528MV2-DC, an ES352MV2-DC migrated to EdgeCOS, Edge-Core Networks’ robust, identical switch using DC rather than AC power. The upgraded native software platform, too, which helps our customers deliver switches form part of the company’s range of enterprise-level and superior performance in both today and tomorrow’s networks,” service provider/ carrier Ethernet networking equipment and explained Garfield Hsieh, Edge-Core Networks’ PLM Manager. services. They are designed to enable service providers and Paul Luff, SA country manager, Edge-Core Networks, says costwireline carriers to deliver managed converged services such as effective means enhancing performance and improving voice, video, and data over Ethernet and IP networks. Each switch management is driving network investment. is able to manage a virtual stack of up to 36 switches with a single “Considering the requirements of local consumers, of service IP address, thus allowing customers to maximize switch value and providers and of developers, there is certainly a need for solutions performance. Members of Edge-Core Networks’ ECS3500 Series of that offer more functionality with added features. The advent of Layer 2 Fast Ethernet switches, the ES3528MV2 and ES3528MV2-DC deliver flexible Quality of Service (QoS), advanced Operation, Paul Luff, SA country manager, triple play in the local market and continued relevance of unified Edge-Core Networks communications is fuelling demand. This enhanced switching Administration, and Maintenance (OAM), and support for extended infrastructure covers all the bases as far as control over the network is concerned, temperature range environments among other carrier-friendly features. "We have doubled the size of the MAC address table, packet buffer, access control list with specific attention to the adherence to international standards of connectivity.” table, and number of priority queues as well as increased the number of VLANs supported from 256 to 4000 entries. In addition, we use 800 MHz CPU to power the www.edge-core.com

Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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EQUIPMENT

RAD's new carrier Ethernet service aggregation platform should resonate well with network operators looking to address a variety of applications.” “To address current market pressures, service providers are looking to minimise costs and accomplish as much as possible with minimal equipment,” adds Erin Dunne, Director of Research Services at Vertical Systems Group. “With that in mind, their needs are best addressed by systems that intelligently aggregate and manage the most Ethernet traffic at the lowest cost and smallest footprint.”

technological expertise in access networks to design a central-site Carrier Ethernet solution tailor-made for pre-aggregation in larger networks but equally able to be deployed as a service hub in smaller operations or private networks,” he continues. “And we’ve addressed the ‘sweet spot’ for operators requiring full-blown functionality and high-port capacity but packaged in a smallform factor box that uses less than half the power consumption than any competitive product in the market.” “RAD’s ETX-5300A is the type of solution that defines a next-generation carrier Ethernet access/aggregation platform optimised for converging business, wholesale, and mobile backhaul services onto a single, operationally efficient network infrastructure,” explains Stan Hubbard, senior analyst, Heavy Reading. “Its high port density, hierarchical traffic management features, synchronisation solution set, 10GE ring support, and smooth service and network management integration with other Ethernet The ETX-5300A Ethernet Service Aggregation Platform access platforms in RAD’s portfolio

RAD DATA COMMUNICATIONS has launched the ETX-5300A Ethernet Service Aggregation Platform, which grooms Ethernet and TDM traffic from the access network to the provider’s edge (PE), enabling operators to substantially reduce their operational costs per Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) link. Conforming to emerging Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) CE 2.0 specifications, the new device offers a complete Carrier Ethernet ecosystem in combination with RAD’s popular demarcation NTUs (NIDs). “It’s almost magic what our engineers were able to do with this device,” states Amir Karo, Vice President of Marketing at RAD Data Communications. “RAD has applied its wide experience and

ADVERTISERS INDEX Company ............................ page ACE Cable Consortium ..............15 Amos Spacecom ........................2 ArabSat......................................18 Asia Broadcast Satellite ..........29 Comnet Power ..........................12 Comtech EF Data Corp ..............11 Falcon Electronics (Pty) Ltd.......21 GL Communications..................13 Hellas-Sat Consortium Ltd. ......27 Informa Telecoms & Media (Cloud Africa 2012) ..................43 Informa Telecoms & Media (North Africa Com 2012) ..........30 Informa Telecoms & Media (West & Central Africa Com 2012) ......................25 Intelsat ......................................23 Interactive Intelligence ............26 Intermarc Consulting (Card, ATM & Mobile Expo Africa 2012)......47 Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltd. ........48 K-Net Ltd. ..................................31 Milano Teleport S.p.A. ................9 Newtec ........................................8 PCCW Global Ltd.......................37 Safran Morpho..........................33 Samsung Galaxy Note ................7 Space Stream............................34 Spectrum Communications ....35 Telecom Italia Sparkle S.p.A.......5 WIOCC........................................17

3U high unit packs up to 80 GbE or 16 10GbE access links The ETX-5300A aggregates up to 80 GbE or 16 10GbE access links into redundant 10 GbE ports, freeing up expensive PE capacity and significantly reducing CapEx and OpEx by cutting the price per link by half, or more, when working opposite RAD’s ETX Carrier Ethernet demarcation devices. It can also be deployed to deliver SLA-based business Ethernet services. The 3U-high device can easily be placed in street cabinets, basement communications rooms or crowded racks in their access POPs.

www.rad.com

Issue 3 2012

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46 Communications Africa Issue 3 2012

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