07 May 2021

Wireless transport solutions expert Aviat Networks has agreed a multi-million agreement with mobile operator Africell to provide a 5G-ready end-to-end disaggregated transmission network across the continent.

The new network will be designed, installed, and maintained by Aviat and will include Aviat WTM 4000 and WTM 4800 Multi-band point-to-point radios and CTR microwave switches, and disaggregated cell site gateways (DCSGs).

The DCSGs are Edgecore Networks running IP Infusion’s OcNOS network operating system. Both companies say the deployment, scheduled for the second quarter this year, is Africell’s first Telecom Infra Project (TIP)-compliant DCSG endeavour.

“Leading mobile operators like Africell recognise the operational advantages of a disaggregated solution and how its flexibility will enable the rapid delivery of broadband services,” said Peter Smith, CEO of Aviat Networks. “We are proud that Africell has placed its confidence in Aviat to meet the challenge of their first TIP-compliant DCSG project.”

Wissam Fayad, network transmission manager, Africell Holdings, added: “With escalating demand for high-speed mobile Internet services in our markets, and with 5G in our sights, we sought an approach that offers us fast deployment, maximum flexibility, and lowest TCO. Aviat’s backhaul and DCSG solution was the clear choice to meet all these challenges and support the rapid network growth of our transmission network well into the future.”