The Bayobab Group (Formerly MTN GlobalConnect) has announced
that it has been awarded an International Network Licence in Zambia, authorising
the transit of capacity across borders. This milestone achievement marks a
significant breakthrough for its subsidiary in Zambia, opening new doors and
strengthening its position as a land-locked country in transforming Zambia into
the digital hub of Southern Africa.
The connectivity landscape in Zambia has been
undergoing significant transformations, playing a crucial role in shaping how
its people access information, conduct business and engage in various aspects
of modern life. With a population exceeding 19 million, Zambia has witnessed a
notable surge in digital adoption, driven by technological advancements and
increased accessibility to connectivity.
At the time, speaking at the Licence award press
briefing Honorable Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati said, “Zambia is
currently carrying a big credential stature and standing solely on the African
continent to achieve the debt restructure, he explained the new monetary
achievement will progressively see the country develop its incentives,
investments, and innovation to leverage on and grow the economy.”
Efforts to enhance the connectivity infrastructure in
Zambia have been ongoing. Initiatives to expand and improve internet
infrastructure, including the deployment of fibre-optic networks, have
contributed to improved internet speeds and greater reliability. This has
benefited urban areas and laid the groundwork for more equitable access to
digital services in rural regions.
Frédéric Schepens, CEO of the Bayobab Group, expressed
his enthusiasm stating, “With access to over 4,000 kilometres of proprietary
fibre in the country, the award of the International Network Licence granted by
the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), will
allow the transportation of digital capacity across borders, enabling
businesses, individuals, and communities, to thrive in the digital era. Bayobab
Zambia is positioned to deliver the benefits of a modern connected life.”
Echoing this, Bayobab Zambia Managing Director,
Lillian T Mutwalo shares, “This marks a significant milestone towards building
seamless digital communication in Zambia. As we move forward, we remain
steadfast in our commitment to excellence, innovation, and the relentless
pursuit of next-gen digital connectivity solutions. This milestone paves the
way for a future where borders become digital gateways, enabling progress and
prosperity for Zambia, and beyond.
The newly acquired Licence empowers Bayobab Zambia to
seamlessly transport fibre capacity between nations, revolutionising the way
data travels across borders. This momentous development not only supports the
company's ability to connect people and businesses around the world but also
fuels innovation, collaboration, and economic growth.