Seychelles-based telecommunications services provider Intelvision Limited has received US$20-million funding from the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC) to strengthen its broadband network and digital services.

IFC’s support to Intelvision, which provides data, internet and internet-based voice services, as well as digital pay television, includes a US$10-million loan from its own account and an additional US$10-million loan mobilised from partners under the Managed co-Lending Portfolio Programme (MCPP).

The funding will enable Intelvision to lease a new cable being built by Vodafone Carrier Services as a branch of the 2Africa cable network, a cable project spanning over 37,000km and connecting 26 countries.

The new cable will complement the existing Seychelles East Africa System and is expected to lower the cost of connectivity for telecommunication operators in the country and increase competition for fixed broadband and mobile data services.

The cable will deliver over 600Gbps of international bandwidth to Intelvision and will represent a significant step-up with respect to connectivity speed for households and business customers.

Further, the cable is also expected to increase the speed and capacity of Intelvision’s existing Fibre Optic and Hybrid Fibre Coaxial Networks.

The company said the cable will also enable it to expand its terrestrial network by providing 4G and 5G mobile networks in the country.

Intelvision chairman Mukesh Valabhji said, “I think it will revolutionise the way we experience internet here in Seychelles. We are pleased to work together with Vodafone and IFC amidst the challenge of the pandemic (COVID-19). Our aim is to enhance the telecommunications infrastructure of Seychelles and strengthen our digital offering to the people of Seychelles.”

IFC country manager for Seychelles Marcelle Ayo said, “By working with Intelvision to expand Seychelles’ digital offering, we can help the country meet growing demand for internet connectivity while helping to lower prices to build a strong foundation for the country’s digital economic development.”

Through the 15-year lease agreement with Vodafone, Intelvision plans to launch mobile telephony services in the country where most customers access internet through a mobile phone.