Orange has partnered with Eutelsat’s Konnect satellite to enhance internet access in underserved regions, including Jordan, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The satellite, offering up to 100 Mb/s speeds, aims to improve connectivity in remote areas with limited network coverage. The collaboration is seen as a critical tool in addressing the unique challenges of African connectivity, particularly where terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable.
Orange’s CEO, Michael Trabbia, highlighted that while satellite technology offers great potential for connectivity, it faces challenges such as congestion in densely populated regions. Despite these limitations, satellites offer significant opportunities for mobile backhaul and maritime applications, especially in remote areas.
The collaboration also positions Orange to participate in the European Union’s IRIS2 project, which aims to establish a 5G satellite constellation by 2030. Satellites are expected to play a crucial role in connecting isolated regions and transforming them into more digitally connected areas.
In addition to the technological potential, the initiative has practical applications for enhancing education, healthcare, and agriculture in regions where connectivity has been historically limited. With continued advancements, satellite technology can improve speed, reduce latency, and make internet access more affordable in developing regions.
As this partnership unfolds, it marks a significant step in Orange’s efforts to bridge the digital divide, with satellites poised to play a transformative role in the future of global connectivity.
