On Monday, Airtel Malawi, in conjunction with Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM), one of the two predominant mobile service providers in Southeast Africa, announced its intention to enhance its network by incorporating additional data links and enhancing overall reliability.
Airtel Malawi’s Acting Managing Director Abdul Shaik said last week that the company’s efforts to buy more international data link capacity and hire new local fibre suppliers are meant to reduce network disruptions.
Read also: Airtel Gabon secures licence for first technology-neutral fixed network
Addressing challenges to ensure connectivity
Malawi has just under 22 million people and can only be reached by road. That’s why it depends on service companies in other countries for data services. However, extended power outages in Zambia, road work in Malawi, and vandalism have all caused problems with the fibre, affecting both data and voice services.
ESCOM, a state-owned company in Malawi responsible for transmitting, distributing, and supplying energy, is said to have been added as an additional local fibre provider by the company. This move will make the company’s main routes safer for service. The company is also getting more protection for its fibre lines from Tanzania.
Read also: Gabon grants Airtel comprehensive fixed operator licence
According to Nyasa Times, Abdul Shaik said the current move will reduce disruptions caused by fibre failures in Mozambique, Zambia, and Malawi.
According to a report by the Nyasa Times, Airtel Malawi expresses confidence that these initiatives will substantially enhance the reliability of its network. The company is committed to finalising the enhancements by the conclusion of this month; however, it has indicated that it will furnish updates as the project advances.