Liquid Telecom yesterday announced it will implement and operate South Sudan’s first fiber broadband network. This connecting the country to the “One Africa” broadband network — which is approaching 70,000km across 13 African countries (Uganda inclusive) and to the rest of the world.
H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of South Sudan recognized the breakthrough foreign direct investment.
“The implementation of this critical fiber infrastructure is a landmark step in the delivery of affordable communications access to the people of South Sudan, the business community, government, and civil society,” Salva said.
The Pres. further said connecting the country to the global internet, is an important infrastructure development that will help improve social mobility, enable economic diversification and drive inclusive private sector-led growth and productive employment.
In his remarks, Mr. Strive Masiyiwa, Executive Chairman at Liquid Telecom said, the company is immensely proud to bring fiber connectivity to South Sudan for the first time.
“This modern ICT infrastructure will help address the most pressing challenges within South Sudan, including the urgent need for peace and state building, job creation and improved livelihoods,” he said.
He further said that, connecting South Sudan to the ‘One Africa‘ broadband network will also champion pan-Africa trade and help build Africa’s digital future.
Liquid Telecom looks before end of 2019 — making reliable and affordable internet connectivity available for nearly 13 million citizens of South Sudan, as well as businesses, government MDAs, and non-government institutions.
Masiyiwa said the 13 million South Sudan citizens will be connected to 300 million people across the East African Community.
The first phase of the agreement signed between the Government of South Sudan’s National Communication Authority and Liquid Telecom will include a 300km fiber backbone operating from the border of Uganda, through South Sudan, to Juba. Multiple metro clusters will also support the capital city.
