Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Ghana to deploy mobile WiMAX network

The first nationwide deployment of mobile WiMAX is planned for Ghana, according to an announcement Monday by Internet Ghana and Navini Networks, which will install the high-speed network.

The 802.16e network deployment is underway, with initial operation to begin in the capital city of Accra.

"Once Internet Ghana saw it in action in other countries, they decided to move pretty quickly," said Maryvonne Tubb, Navini Networks spokeswoman. She said the firms involved in the deployment view mobile WiMAX as an effective tool to bridge the "digital divide" to bring broadband solutions to third world and developing countries seeking to leapfrog into more advanced technologies.

"With high consumer demand, poor DSL access and long customer connections, Ghana is absolutely ready for mass market, rapid install, broadband wireless services," said Leslie Tamakloe, CEO of Internet Ghana, in a statement.