Avanti Communications has signed a contract with Bentley Walker, a supplier of VSAT networks, to avail satellite internet connectivity to non-governmental organisations, businesses and government departments across Tanzania.

Tanzania has an internet penetration rate of about 34% according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority. Statistics by the regulator shows that there are about 17.2 million people with access to the internet in the country, with 16.2 million accessing through mobile wireless connectivity.

The rising demand for fast internet connectivity is providing opportunities for service providers, says an executive for Avanti Communications.

"Demand for fast, affordable connectivity in Tanzania has been increasing as consumers, NGOs, government departments and businesses of all sizes understand the value and have greater access to mobile devices," Avanti states.

"The contract with Bentley Walker addresses this demand," it says.

Described as "superfast satellite broadband," internet on the new contract by Avanti and Bentley Walker will be accessed at speeds of up-to 24mbps across Tanzania. Such arrangements between operators are seen as an alternative to Ku- and C-band services.

Officials said the two internet companies "will work with local partners" while accessibility will be through Avanti's HYLAS 2 Ka-band satellite.

Anthony Walker, CEO at Bentley Walker said the company will leverage on its Home Cache that helps to "save bandwidth usage by caching HTTP content and enhancing users' browsing experience by instantly loading frequently used" content.