Africa To Benefit From Smart Leo Networks

Q-KON has announced it is building on a previously successful collaboration with satellite communications specialist Eutelsat OneWeb to further develop end-user portfolio service sets engineered to meet the needs of niche market sectors in sub-Saharan Africa. Q-KON has recognised the challenges inherent in the African connectivity landscape and consequently taken a different, more contextually relevant approach to that adopted by most global suppliers. Rather than deploy universal or generic end-user profiles, Q-KON is working with Eutelsat OneWeb to deliver smart LEO networks for Africa. While the performance and cost advantages of LEO satellite connectivity have been demonstrated, what has been lacking at least in an African context is the ability or willingness to adapt to local circumstances. Smart LEO networks from Q-KON and OneWeb combine the benefits of global LEO networks with the flexibility and adaptability required to meet African use-case scenarios. Key features include locating gateway infrastructure within Africa and user terminals optimised for maximum uptime. Eutelsat OneWebs development of a smart network domain on the LEO constellation has created a unique opportunity for Q-KON. Its Twoobii smart satellite services model is built for exactly the kind of flexibility required to marry the proven advantages of LEO with tailor-made functionality for local users.