Vodacom and Orange to Expand Network Coverage in DRC

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With Vodacom, Orange is hoping to boost connectivity across DRC (Image: Orange)
Vodacom and Orange create a joint venture to expand network coverage in rural areas in the DRC to bridge the digital divide and expand network coverage

Both Vodacom and Orange have pledged to jointly construct up to 2,000 new solar-powered base stations over six years, using 2G and 4G technologies, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

As the first of its kind, the partnership will see both companies collaborate to build, own and operate solar-powered mobile base stations in underserved areas of the DRC. 

The initiative will extend network coverage and enable access to telecommunications and mobile financial services to up to 19 million people in less densely populated rural communities, reinforcing their commitment to bridging the digital divide and driving inclusive growth. 

Enabling rural network coverage

Deploying and operating networks, particularly in deep rural areas, continues to be a significant challenge in the DRC. As of June 2023, data from the Congo Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPTC) suggested that only 30.79% of Congolese had access to mobile internet.

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Likewise, only 0.0174% harnessed fixed internet services.

To bridge the digital divide and expand network coverage in underserved communities, Vodacom and Orange have pledged to jointly construct up to 2,000 new solar-powered base stations over six years, using 2G and 4G technologies. 

This agreement commences with an initial commitment of 1,000 sites after which Orange and Vodacom may scale the project by a further 1,000 towers. Beyond enhanced population coverage, this combined investment will enable consumers to access voice, data and mobile money services. 

With the first base station expected to start operating in 2025, Orange and Vodacom will be sharing active and passive equipment owned by the joint venture as anchor tenants for an initial term of 20 years. 

The joint venture will also offer its passive infrastructure to any mobile network operator (MNO) interested wherever technically feasible to increase usage and promote a wider range of options for the population.  

Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group (Image: Vodacom Group)

“With a footprint serving over 210 million customers across Africa, we have the opportunity to significantly contribute to the continent's socio-economic development by building a digital society and fostering inclusivity for all,” explains Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group.

“This aligns with our purpose to connect for a better future, and our partnership with Orange is a crucial step towards providing mobile coverage to people in previously underserved areas in the DRC.”

Improving the economy with connectivity

Mobile Internet penetration in the DRC is now at 32.3%. Orange and Vodacom's announcement to construct new base stations in the country aligns with the country's new vision for the digital economy as included in the National Digital Plan Horizon 2025 adopted in 2019. 

The pledge also aims to foster digital transformation across various sectors, leading to improved public services, enhanced economic growth and equitable access to digital services for all citizens. 

It is also expected to contribute to job creation, bridge the digital divide, whilst also boosting the country's GDP. 

Jérôme Hénique, Orange Middle East and Africa CEO

“Our longstanding presence in Africa, including over 10 years in the DRC, has equipped us with a deep understanding of the market and customer needs,” says Orange Middle East and Africa CEO, Jérôme Hénique. 

“Collaborating with Vodacom by sharing both passive and active infrastructure is the most effective approach to fulfilling our commitment to accelerating connectivity access for everyone, including rural areas, while minimizing our environmental footprint.”

Orange is committed to bolstering connectivity across the African continent. In recent years, the telco has announced a range of initiatives to bridge the digital divide, including partnering with OpenAI and Meta to develop AI models for African languages like Wolof and Pulaar.


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