Telkom Kenya has partnered with Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks to develop Open RAN technology, supported by a KES 568 million grant. The project aims to enhance 4G/5G connectivity in Kenya, promote knowledge transfer, and establish Kenya as a technological hub in Africa. Telkom’s active involvement in development processes sets it apart from regional operators.
Telkom Kenya has partnered with Rakuten Symphony of Japan and Airspan Networks from the U.S. to develop Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology. This partnership is supported by a KES 568 million ($4.4 million) technology grant from both the Japanese and U.S. governments, aiming to position Kenya as a telecommunications innovation hub in Africa.
The collaboration will involve creating a testing facility for field and network trials focused on enhancing 4G/5G, Open RAN, and AI technologies tailored for African connectivity needs. Open RAN distinguishes itself from traditional Closed RAN systems by allowing diverse hardware and software from various vendors to work in unison, which can lower operational costs and enhance network performance.
Mugo Kibati, CEO of Telkom, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that joining this consortium represents a step toward advancing technologies like AI in telecommunications. The partnership delineates clear roles: Airspan will contribute 4G and 5G radio units, Rakuten will provide the necessary software stack and Operating Support System, and Telkom will offer human resources and facilities for the initiative.
Glenn Laxdal, President and CEO of Airspan, noted that by exploring new telecommunication advancements, this project positions Kenya as a leader in Africa’s tech scene. Unlike many regional operators that merely adopt existing RAN technologies, Telkom is actively involved in the development and testing processes.
The initiative emphasizes knowledge transfer, aiming to train local developers and engineers, which will promote local innovation. The partnership secures funding from the Japanese government ($3 million) and the U.S. government ($1.4 million) through Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks. The technology aims to enhance user experiences, improve network performance, and bolster Telkom’s R&D capabilities as part of its broader transformation strategy.
Telkom Kenya’s collaboration with Rakuten and Airspan marks a significant step towards the development of Open RAN technology in Africa. With substantial government funding, the initiative aims to foster innovation in telecommunications while enhancing local capabilities through knowledge transfer and practical involvement. By actively participating in the development and deployment processes, Telkom seeks to improve network performance and customer experience, ultimately positioning Kenya as a technological leader in the region.
Original Source: techweez.com
