Tarana Wireless, the Milpitas, CA developer of next generation fixed wireless access (ngFWA) broadband technology is working with Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) to increase internet availability in rural and underserved regions of Africa. The collaboration aims to assist service providers in these areas by enabling the deployment of government-approved telecom equipment at competitive prices, along with providing training and technical support.
The companies say that access to secure and affordable telecom equipment remains a significant challenge for expanding internet connectivity in Africa. Despite progress, high infrastructure costs and limited rural coverage have allowed the digital divide to persist. In some regions, fewer than 30 percent of people have reliable internet access. Through the African Airband program, Microsoft is working to expand affordable connectivity to communities in Africa by collaborating with local service providers, governments, and non-profit organizations.
Tarana claims its ngFWA broadband platform offers fiber-like performance with the flexibility of wireless, enabling faster and more affordable connectivity than wired options or traditional FWA alternatives. By addressing common fixed wireless issues like non-line-of-sight coverage and radio interference, the company says ngFWA is suited for remote and underserved areas. Both companies believe their partnership will reduce equipment costs and streamline deployment in Africa, improving internet access quickly and efficiently.
Reader Interactions