Airtel Business Zambia has partnered with the UAE's Thuraya Telecommunications to boost satellite and mobile communications services in the African country.

The partnership is expected to address the demand for innovative communications technology in Zambia for both corporate and individual customers.

Airtel Business is the enterprise arm of Airtel Networks Zambia.

Airtel Zambia managing director Charity Lumpa said the satellite solutions are expected to play an integral part in complementing Airtel's existing infrastructure and network coverage in Zambia.

She said the partnership is timely especially as Airtel is investing over $80 million in network upgrades, expansion and quality enhancements to increase the company's reach beyond the existing coverage.

The company expects that the partnership will also eliminate the existing limitations and complexities of terrestrial infrastructure the company is currently facing.

Airtel's satellite services will include the provision of Thuraya satellite phones and mobile satellite broadband terminals that help users to set up field offices, and access corporate networks from any location in rural areas.

"The partnership will complement Airtel's existing infrastructure and network coverage in Zambia. Customers will always be connected whether via data or through voice," Lumpa said.