On Wednesday, Airtel Uganda, via its enterprise division Airtel Business, introduced Airtel Network as a Service (NaaS), a cutting-edge digital solution driven by Cisco that aims to support businesses in scaling effectively and safely.
Key players in Uganda’s tech and enterprise landscape came together for the event, which was hosted at the Serena Hotel.
In his keynote address, Networks Director Rajesh Agrawal presented Airtel Network as a Service (NaaS) as a revolutionary solution designed to support companies at all phases of expansion.
“Whether you’re a startup in Bugolobi, a retail chain in Gulu, or a financial institution with operations across East Africa, this service meets you where you are and grows with you,” he said.
Airtel Naas provides built-in security
In addition to highlighting the service’s flexibility and scalability, Mr. Agrawal pointed out that NaaS provides built-in security (including firewalls, encryption, and compliance), worldwide reach, local dependability, and round-the-clock support.
“This solution combines the technical excellence of Cisco with Airtel’s global infrastructure and deep understanding of Ugandan businesses,” he added.
Acting Director Charles Mugasa of Airtel Business echoed this sentiment, saying that the company is dedicated to using intelligent, cutting-edge infrastructure to reimagine Africa’s business landscape.
“We want to become the preferred digital partner for African businesses within our Airtel footprint—the pride of our people and customers,” he said.
Airtel NaaS’s role in digital transformation
A panel discussion about NaaS’s role in digital transformation ensued. Shobhit Agarwal, Javed Johar (Networks Architecture), Lameck Ochola (Airtel Africa Group), and Andrew Katwere Semwezi (Senior Data Centre & Networks Engineer at Absa Bank Uganda) were on the panel, which was moderated by David Birungi, MCIPR, Airtel Uganda’s PR Manager.
Additionally, Lameck Ochola said during the panel, “The future is here. This service is designed to help small businesses grow and access cloud infrastructure.”
Shobhit Agarwal noted that one of their goals is to remove technical pain points so businesses can focus on strategic growth.
“We’re giving customers simplified tools that allow them to focus on strategy, not struggle with systems,” he said.
Airtel Network as a Service’s security
Regarding security, Javed Johar gave attendees the assurance that, “This service is very secure. We understand that not every customer will have a cybersecurity team. That’s why we’ve built the protection right in.”
Andrew Katwere Semwezi, speaking from the viewpoint of an enterprise client, emphasised the significance of value.
“Businesses shouldn’t worry about the backend. The real question is—what value does it bring to your business?”
Additionally, he promoted early adoption, pointing out that companies have a long-term advantage when they can adapt to new technology.