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No question, Africa is linking up nicely says Q-KON

By , ITWeb
10 Dec 2012

No question, Africa is linking up nicely says Q-KON

Innovative solutions, more focused service delivery and better understanding of the connectivity market are just some of the reasons why Africa is attracting the attention of more service providers. The surge in mobile use within emerging markets across Africa and expected rise in mobile-related business areas, including mobile payment services, has fuelled debate around the issue of fixed line operations versus mobility.

Furthermore, there is growing interest in the relevance and impact of Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and satellite vs fibre infrastructure, and how these technologies can alleviate connectivity issues, including latency and speed, which have long-been stumbling blocks to effective usage in Africa.

Whatever should transpire, going forward, there is little doubt that the progress of telecommunications is entirely dependent on connectivity says management at Q-KON.

The South African company, based in Gauteng, is focussed on providing satellite and wireless access network solutions to service niche markets in Africa. It continues to target this broad market with service and support, simultaneously empowering regional service providers with the resources to maximise market presence and enhance service offerings.

This carefully worked strategy to meet an increasing demand for affordable, trouble-free connectivity is backed by a well-established partner network. This includes a long-term relationship with Alvarion for the development of metro-Fi networks and one with Newtec to unlock the broadcast and mass IP satellite access markets.

Executive management at Q-KON believes that there has been a general shift in focus within the technology services and solutions market from ‘international’ to ‘Africa’, with the current focus on ‘Africa for Africa’.

“The deployment of VSAT networks in international locations to service the Africa market is no longer the preferred option. This requirement is further fuelled by the various terrestrial cable networks that provide cost effective and reliable broadband connectivity to Africa. All markets are unique – and in that case Africa is no different. The basic requirements and restrictions might be similar to other developing market while the people and their ways to resolve these problems are certainly specific to Africa,” explains Dawie de Wet, chief executive officer of Q-KON.

However, the role of satellite infrastructure in helping to address access to the internet and enhancement of broadband services throughout the continent cannot be underestimated the company states.

“Satellite has always been the de facto option to provide ubiquitous services in Africa – and this remains unchanged. What is changing is the market awareness that satellite is not only a high-end solution and that business and SOHO services can be provided at competitive rates with 3G and ADSL. A services such as SkyeVine is demonstrating the power of a well defined product offering,” explains de Wet.

Expectation from operators and service providers is that Africa’s telecommunications sector is poised for growth and now is the opportunity to ensure service offerings are in place and ready for rollout.

Editorial contacts
Dawie de Wet
Chief Executive Officer
(+27) 83 252 6600

Gloria Malan
PR Manager & Publicist
082-340-2876
gloria@micro-zone.co.za

About
Q-KON is a 1st tier satellite network provider, turn-key telecommunication solution provider and the distributor of the NET and Xiplink product ranges.

For more than 20 years, Q-KON has followed successful strategies to establish advance technologies in challenging environments and to unlock real business benefits for our customers and partners. Effectively integrating its commanding capability in niche, wireless and satellite technologies with an intuitive understanding and appreciation of the African market, Q-KON has conquered many business impossibilities.

Since its inception Q-KON has distinguished itself in providing solutions and services supported by long term relationships and continued value add. Today Q-KON can proudly look back at 24 years of engineering achievements throughout Africa underwritten by sound business practices and long-term ethical relationships. Q-KON serves the South African market through Q-KON SA, a subsidiary based in Gauteng, and the rest-of-Africa market through its Q-KON Africa subsidiary.

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