Author: Akin Naphtal

Vodafone UK and Ericsson have successfully reduced the daily power consumption of 5G radio units by up to 33% in trial sites across London, in a development for network energy efficiency. The achievement marks a significant step in cutting operational costs and lowering carbon emissions without compromising user experience. The success stems from a trial of Ericsson’s AI and machine learning (ML) solutions, which dynamically manage network power usage. By integrating the Service Continuity AI App suite with Intelligent Energy Efficiency, Vodafone UK has demonstrated the potential of smart automation to optimize energy consumption across its 5G infrastructure. AI-Powered Energy-Saving…

French telecom giant Orange has unveiled plans to leverage its data center assets, positioning itself to take advantage of the growing global demand for data center infrastructure. Speaking at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Michaël Trabbia, CEO of Orange Wholesale, emphasized the strategic role of data centers in the company’s telecom infrastructure. He highlighted Orange’s commitment to retaining ownership of its network assets, even as other telecom operators have opted to sell off infrastructure such as towers and data centers. Strategic Shift: Monetizing Data Center AssetsTrabbia explained that Orange’s tower subsidiary, Totem, has created new revenue opportunities by allowing…

With a wealth of experience over 30 years, Ayotunde Coker, Chief Executive Officer of Open Access Data Centers, is at the forefront of Africa’s technological change, driving innovation, expansion, and the seamless integration of world-class digital solutions. His profound understanding of data infrastructure and business transformation has cemented his status as a leading force in the industry. Before his tenure at OADC, Coker was the CEO of Rack Centre, where he transformed the organisation into a beacon of excellence, earning it a reputation as a premier data centre provider in Africa. Under his leadership, Rack Centre became synonymous with world-class…

The global telecommunications industry is projected to generate $1.3 trillion in total revenue by 2028, despite facing slow growth and pricing challenges, according to PwC’s Global Telecom Outlook 2024-2028 report. The report revealed that total service revenue across fixed and mobile networks grew by 4.3% in 2023 to reach $1.14 trillion. However, the industry’s revenue growth rate is expected to decelerate, with PwC forecasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of just 2.9% through 2028, below the projected inflation rate. Nigeria Among Fastest-Growing Telecom MarketsIn contrast to the global slowdown, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector recorded significant growth in 2024, with total…

Globacom has launched its e-SIM service, offering customers a seamless and modern alternative to physical SIM cards. As part of the rollout, customers who activate the eSIM and purchase a data plan worth N1,500 or more will receive an instant 5GB data bonus. In a statement released in Lagos, Globacom described the eSIM as a software-based digital chip embedded directly into smartphones and wearable devices, eliminating the need for traditional SIM cards. The innovation allows users to switch between numbers seamlessly without the hassle of inserting or replacing a physical SIM. “Customers on any network can enjoy ‘SIM-less’ freedom with…

NAPAfrica, Africa’s leading Internet Exchange Point (IXP), has reached a significant milestone by surpassing five terabits per second (Tbps) of traffic. This achievement cements its position as the fastest-growing IXP on the continent and one of the top ten globally by total traffic volume. With over 655 networks peering at its exchange points, NAPAfrica continues to play a crucial role in keeping African internet traffic local, reducing costs, and enhancing network performance. The exchange has witnessed remarkable growth over the years, with traffic peaking at 100 Gbps in 2016, reaching 500 Gbps in 2018, surging to 2 Tbps in 2021,…

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Tecogen Inc., a clean energy company specializing in ultra-efficient on-site power, heating, and cooling solutions. Through this collaboration, Vertiv will integrate Tecogen’s advanced natural gas-powered chiller technology into its portfolio, providing data centers worldwide with alternative energy solutions to reduce grid dependency and support AI expansion. As the power demands of artificial intelligence and critical digital infrastructure continue to rise, some regions are experiencing strain on their electricity grids. Tecogen’s natural gas-powered chiller solutions, which have been used for over 40 years in high-demand sectors…

Orange Africa and Middle East (OMEA) and Eutelsat have announced a strategic partnership aimed at bridging the digital divide in Africa and the Middle East through satellite connectivity. The initiative seeks to bring broadband access to remote and underserved areas, reinforcing digital inclusion across the region. As part of this multi-year agreement, Orange will leverage the EUTELSAT KONNECT satellite, which offers advanced broadband technology, to provide reliable and affordable internet access. The initial deployment will focus on Jordan, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with plans to expand coverage to additional countries over time. By integrating Orange’s…

Network International, a leading digital commerce enabler in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has partnered with Airtel Money, Airtel Africa’s mobile money platform, to roll out digital payment solutions across key African markets. Uganda is the first country to go live under the pan-African payment processing partnership, with further activations planned across Africa and Francophone countries in 2025. Under this collaboration, Network International will provide expertise and support for transaction processing, card management, fraud prevention, API sandbox services, reconciliation and settlement, and online access for Airtel Money users. Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Reda Helal, Group Managing Director –…

In the telecommunications sector, Stephen Blewett, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, is one of the prominent leaders who exhibits foresight and transformational leadership. A seasoned executive with a sterling career spanning over 20 years, Blewett embodies the essence of innovation, resilience, and business excellence. Before his tenure at MTN Ghana, he served as Operations Executive for MTN Markets, overseeing operations in Côte d’Ivoire, and as a Non-Executive Director for MTN WECA, contributing to the growth of markets across Liberia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Benin, and Congo Brazzaville. His exceptional leadership at MTN Cameroon saw the company achieve profitability…