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NEC Corporation, which is a global leader in the integration of IT and network technologies, has agreed with Zamtel of Zambia to build a new digital microwave radio transmission network to boost mobile phone coverage and capacity for citizens, enterprises, and tourists across Zambia.
A statement issued by NEC today said that the turnkey deal, which includes the supply, delivery, installation, testing, and commissioning of NEC’s microwave transmission network equipment, is expected to be completed within 12 months and will cost $18,329,326. NEC will upgrade Zamtel’s existing backbone and access systems and commission new links to connect its macro base stations and core network wirelessly.
This investment in Zamtel transmission infrastructure aims to upgrade and modernize the company’s digital microwave transmission backbone network in order to meet current and foreseeable future growth in mobile data demand, while supporting the company’s LTE rollout plan.
“This partnership will see NEC design, manufacture, supply, deliver, install, test, migrate and commission a native Ethernet microwave backbone and access radios specifically tailored to Zamtel’s requirements,” said the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mupanga Mwanakatwe.
Dr. Mwanakatwe said the new digital microwave backbone and access project will include the installation of 2Gbps, 600Mbps, 300Mbps, and 150Mbps backbone and access networks based on native Ethernet microwave radio network technologies, adding that on completion, the investment will lead to the realization of a state-of-the-art national IP microwave backbone and access network.
Dr. Nobuhiro Endo, President at NEC Corporation commented, “by boosting the coverage and capacity of its wireless back haul network, Zamtel will be able to meet the ever rising demand for mobile broadband services from local citizens, enterprises, and tourists across the country. NEC’s highly reliable and cost-effective solution will enable Zamtel to support continued economic growth and underpin emerging services, such as mobile money and high definition mobile TV, in both rural and urban locations.”
NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company’s experience and global resources, NEC’s advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses, and society.
Meanwhile, Zamtel is Zambia’s only total communication solutions provider. Zamtel is 100 percent owned by the Zambian Government, providing voice, data, fixed, internet, MPLS and business continuity services to businesses and individual customers in Zambia.
Zamtel is committed to make a difference and empower communities as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility. The major thrust of Zamtel’s CSR program is anchored on providing safe drinking water in the communities where they operate through Water for Life campaign.