Niger: Expanding cellular network coverage with satellites

The telecommunication provider Orange Niver will be using satellite services from Intelsat to improve cellular network coverage in rural Niger.

The website Developingtelecoms.org reported: "Intelsat will provide C-band broadband capacity to Orange Niger on Intelsat 903 at 325.5º East. The companies have entered a multi-year agreement; when the Intelsat 35e satellite enters service, scheduled for 2017, Orange Niger will be able to seamlessly transition to the new satellite."

Brelotte Ba, CEO of Orange Niger, said: "The satellite-based solution will allow us to add new subscribers and introduce new services in a cost-efficient manner. More importantly, it will provide much needed reliable broadband connectivity, which will have a positive economic impact on the businesses and the communities we look to serve."