SimbaNET, a corporate internet service provider with operations in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia and Malawi, has announced a partnership with Tata Communications to provide technology and communication solutions for businesses in East Africa.
SimbaNET is a member of Wananchi Group, and it operates several fibre points of presence, as well as satellite internet hubs in East Africa. Tata Communications is a subsidiary of Tata Group, operating a vast array of subsea and terrestrial communications networks. Over 24% of the world’s Internet routes travel over Tata Communications’ networks.
The partnership will see companies in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania gain access to enterprise solutions such as global network connectivity, direct public cloud access, unified communications and managed security services. Also, corporations from outside the region looking to connect to East Africa will be able to use Tata Communications’ global public IP backbone and SimbaNET’s regional IP network to do so.
“As a fast growing emerging market, ICT is an essential component for economic growth and overall development in East Africa. This collaboration will provide SimbaNET and its customers access to our international services portfolio and vertical solutions as well as the ability to leverage Tata Communications’ global network,” said Radwan Moussalli, Senior Vice President, Middle East, Central Asia and Africa for Tata Communications.
According to the 2015 African Economic Outlook [PDF], East Africa is expected to record a real GDP growth of 6.7% in 2016, higher than any other region in Africa. This presents interesting opportunities for companies operating in the region, as they seek to grow their operations.
“We are excited about this collaboration with Tata Communications and the possibilities it holds for our Enterprise customers in East Africa. It means that businesses will now have access to tailored, tried and tested solutions that enhance their business growth, increase productivity and reduce operational costs,” Managing Director of SimbaNET, Rakesh Kukreja said in a press release.
“This is a strategic opportunity to combine the expertise and strength of Tata Communications’ global products and services with our strong regional presence and relationships”, Rakesh added.
Connectivity in East Africa has been propelled by a steep drop in the cost of broadband internet following the landing of the SEACOM and TEAMS fibre-optic cables, which has led to an increase in the uptake of high speed broadband solutions tailored for businesses.
The partnership between SimbaNet and Tata is expected to play a key role in the region’s continued growth and development, as businesses in East Africa seek connectivity solutions to link them to the outside world.
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