Econet to introduce an entirely IP network

Econet to introduce an entirely IP network
Published: 24 June 2014
Econet Wireless is working expanding its 3G and 4G services to pave way for the introduction of an entirely Internet Protocol (IP) network which will enable the transmission of information between devices and individuals with speed and ease.

Speaking at the launch of Econet's Platinum Suite in Borrowdale this morning, chief executive Douglas Mboweni said the network would allow them to cater for customers' needs as technology evolves.

"The kind of network we have to build is what is known as the 20-20 network. It is an entirely IP network that is smart and enables communication between devices," he said.

Econet launched its 4G service last year in preparation for the UNWTO general assembly co-hosted with Zambia, becoming the seventh network in Africa to introduce the product.

Mboweni said the company would invest an undisclosed amount in expanding both its 3G and 4G services while awaiting the roll out of the 5G service by other players.

"We are living in an age where convenience, speed and security are key. 4G is already operational and we are looking at expanding it to other areas as part of the investment we are working on. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done in 3G and 4G but 5G is a technology already being looked at by other players and we are watching it closely. As soon as we find that it is ready for roll out then we will go for it because our issue is to make sure that our customers continue to enjoy speed on their devices," he said.

He said Zimbabwe is lagging behind in e-commerce and the new IP network will encourage internet buying which is faster and more convenient than going to the shop physically.

"We continue to invest in infrastructure for high speed access so that if you want to do a transaction from home it is done fast, securely and conveniently. Why should l visit a shop to buy a shirt when the shirt can come to me? Our network will enable that connectivity," he added.

Mboweni added that Econet would soon launch a tracking system which can be used on cars and other devices.

"Your vehicle has so many components which can communicate a message and the network which we are building will enable the transmission of these messages to you. This means your car can communicate with you wherever you are. That is why we are talking 4G and eventually 5G," he said.

Going into the future, Mboweni said investment will be driven by the needs of particular markets.
- bh24
Tags: Econet,

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