Orange Côte d'Ivoire is partnering with Eutelsat to create a satellite broadband internet service to overcome the connectivity gap in rural areas that are currently not served by 4G and fibre networks due to limited access.
Orange said the initiative, which uses Eutelsat's KONNECT satellite, represents a watershed moment in the company's commitment to digital inclusion, augmenting its existing portfolio of fibre and mobile broadband with satellite technology to address the West African nation's specific geographical and economic landscapes.
This launch comes as a recent study highlights that that urban hubs such as Abidjan, Bouaké, and San-Pedro boast near-universal 4G and early 5G pilots, supporting high-bandwidth applications and fintech growth. Rural provinces still rely mainly on 3G with notable coverage gaps.
Through the strategic collaboration, the Orange asserts by connecting these areas, it is contributing to the development of economic activities, access to essentials services and the emergence of new digital uses.
Eutelsat emphasised that by combining satellite connectivity with existing fibre, 4G, and mobile broadband infrastructure, the telco is enabling substantial expansion in internet coverage in the country. Further supporting access to digital services and is set to empower businesses and education.
Commenting on the launch, Philippe Baudrier, Eutelsat's vice president for connectivity in Africa, stated that satellite technology is critical in connecting the continent, particularly through alliances.
“There is no clearer example of how satellite can help to bridge the digital divide than the work we are doing with alongside our partners across the vast continent of Africa. By working with Orange Côte d'Ivoire, KONNECT is helping improve national infrastructure and extend reliable internet access to communities that have been historically been difficult to serve, supporting inclusion, resilience, and long-term digital development.”
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