From Cameroon, IT services firm iPlans has selected World Telecom Labs (WTL) to deploy VoIP switches and construct its VoIP network.

This action follows the decision of the Cameroonian government to approve iPlans' application for a voice license in line with the Cameroon Digital 2020 initiative - aimed at accelerating connectivity across the country.

It is bringing WTL on board to help build its VoIP network. It will also be deploying WTL's web-based e-commerce portal "Pay & Call" for automated customer creation and customer self-care.

This provides iPlans customers with a straightforward way to set up their accounts and manage payments online.

Joseph Kamgue, CEO of iPlans said the development of innovative solutions would aid the growth of Cameroon.

"This is the best way to build a culture of creation, education and skills. However, sometimes we need help and this is where WTL comes in. QoS and user experience is critical to the success of our voice service and we chose WTL because of its expertise and experience in supporting large volumes of calls."

Leigh Smith, Managing Director of WTL added that VoIP is 'going mainstream in Africa' with innovative companies like iPlans leading the way.

"iPlans knows its customers and has customised its offering for them. This is a strategy which is proving to be very successful with users already choosing iPlans over the OTT giants such as WhatsApp and WeChat," he said.

While the telecoms landscape in Cameroon is dominated by MTN, Orange and Nextell, iPlans said it is focusing on making it easier and cheaper for people living, working and visiting Cameroon to make and send calls and texts to other African and non-African countries.