France-based global telecommunication operator, Eutelsat has announced the renewal and expansion of a Ku band deal with Liquid Telecom aimed at improving the quality of internet service in sub-Saharan Africa.
The deal is a multi-year, multi transponder agreement that will enable Liquid Telecom to leverage the extensive coverage of 7° East orbital position to extend its VSAT services. The 7° East neighbourhood is a key orbital position for regional TV channels and one of Eutelsat’s fastest-growing video neighbourhoods. Over 400 TV channels already broadcast from 7° East, which serves anchor clients including Turkish pay-TV platform Digiturk, and Azam TV in sub-Saharan Africa.
The two companies plan to combine the strength and position of the 7° East with the VSAT technology in order to reach underserved homes in sub-Saharan Africa. The VSAT satellite technology uses a type of antenna that receives and transmits data and that by its acronym in English means Very Small Aperture Terminal. This antenna consists of small terminals that can be installed in distributed sites and be connected to a central hub thanks to a satellite. It also stands out that the size of the dishes can vary from 0.75 to 3.8 metres.
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“By working together to further strengthen our ties, we can ensure that the combination of Eutelsat’s satellite coverages of sub-Saharan Africa and Liquid Telecom’s unrivaled expertise in the VSAT market can deliver the highest possible service levels to Liquid’s customers throughout the continent,” Phillippe Oliva, Chief Commercial Officer, Eutelsat, said.
Founded in 2004, Liquid Telecom has expanded its presence to countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, DRC, and Lesotho. In February, the company launched a bond and term loan financing package totaling $820 million. The money raised will support the growth and refinance of its parent company’s debt, Liquid Telecommunications Holdings Limited.
“We are delighted to renew and expand our agreements with Eutelsat, ensuring we can continue to rely on its support and coverage to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity to existing and future customers, no matter where they are located,” Scott Mumford, CEO of Liquid Telecom Satellite Services said.
