02 May 2018

ONEm CEO Christopher Richardson tries to convince African business leaders to adopt his firm's technology.

ONEm Communications says it can bring internet-like services to millions of mobile users currently without internet connectivity. 

The UK-based tech firm plans expansion in Africa through licensing deals and local partnerships.

It said the move will see advanced services for rural communities spread throughout the continent.

ONEm claims its technology transforms ordinary voice and SMS into “powerful” interactive tools.

The company said it offers a framework for developers to create interactive applications for content and services which are relevant in the local market, and that those applications can be run on any mobiles without the internet.

“Reaching all rural areas needs significant funding and formidable technical challenges,” said ONEm CEO Christopher Richardson. “However, the ONEm's solution utilises existing infrastructure to deliver innovative services to rural communities.” 

According to the firm, governments can deploy its technology as a way to provide rural access to critical services.

ONEm said it can provide nationwide interactive services in security, health, education and commerce, and can coordination their development with the relevant government departments.

It added that users only need a basic handset and can get access to vital information interactively using SMS and voice.

ONEm is currently in discussions with mobile operators to deploy its services and make their core voice and SMS more internet-like.

It said more than 20 MNOs already have connections with ONEm with “many more” in the pipeline.

The company has also developed a blockchain technology accessible over SMS to support unique applications.

For example, it said that for the first time, mobile users will be able to have a history of transactions via SMS, and that this will provide a solution towards better financial inclusion.