08 May 2025

Mikko Lavanti, Nokia Mobile Networks SVP of Middle East and Africa

In 2024, the African telecoms industry faced many challenges, including high deployment costs, high operating costs, rising energy tariffs and unreliable energy supply from the grid. All these factors had a knock-on impact on performance and profitability.

Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) is introducing new ways of overcoming these challenges, particularly in its optimisation of Radio Access Networks (RAN).

06 May 2025

Chris Wright, CTO, Red Hat; and a member of the Board of Directors at the IOWN Global Forum

As we stand on the brink of a new technological era, the way we build and manage communication networks must evolve. The increasing demand for high-speed, low-latency, and energy-efficient networks is accelerating the transition from electronic to photonic infrastructure. To enable truly smart cities, power AI innovation, and drive sustainable industries, we need communication networks that operate at the speed of light.

High-speed, sustainable networks

The future of communications networks lies in shifting from electrons to photons. This transition is essential for meeting the demands of AI infrastructure, real-time data processing, and global connectivity. All-photonics networks (APNs) hold the key to unlocking these capabilities while significantly reducing power consumption. A fully optical network not only increases speed and bandwidth but also enables more sustainable digital ecosystems.
As we accelerate this transition, it’s crucial to keep sustainability at the forefront. The environmental benefits of APNs are profound — offering reduced energy consumption and lower operational costs for organisations. Recognising this, Red Hat, in collaboration with IOWN Global Forum members, has established an Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Task Force.