SES, AMN connect 5.8m people in DRC

The sites are entirely solar-powered and use VSAT backhaul. This enables connectivity in remote areas without relying on power grids or existing network infrastructure [Image credit: AMN].

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Satellites and Africa Mobile Network (AMN) have expanded connectivity infrastructure across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), supporting more than 1,100 base stations and increasing population coverage by 27%, hence expanding mobile network access in rural communities.

According to the companies, AMN successfully installed an extra 292 new mobile network base stations around the country in 90 days. Using the capacity provided by SES.

The alliance now provides critical telecommunication services to more than 5.8 million people.

The two companies said by providing reliable connectivity, the operators have empowered local entrepreneurs to scale their operations, enabled students to leverage online resources, and streamline healthcare services, allowing local clinics to consult external specialists in real-time while improving patient outcomes.

AMN asserts that it can bring mobile connectivity to communities across the world.

The partnership between AMN and SES plays a central role in this initiative, as sites are entirely solar-powered and use VSAT backhaul. This enables connectivity in remote areas without relying on power grids or existing network infrastructure.

However, this independence introduces the distinct logistical challenge of delivering connectivity to areas with no fibre, no power, and no existing mobile network coverage, noted the firms.

“Connecting to SES’s multi-orbit satellite network offers a constellation (GEO, MEO, and LEO) providing data connectivity services to over one billion people worldwide, including some of the most remote, unreachable parts of the globe. It is encouraging and inspiring to see how digital transformation has reshaped daily life across the DRC,” said Jean-Philippe Gillet, president of fixed data at SES.

Michael Darcy, CEO of AMN, added: “Building nearly 300 sites in just three months, under some of the toughest conditions imaginable, is an extraordinary achievement. This is what happens when determination meets purpose.”