Strategic Partnership for Open RAN Deployment
Telkom Kenya has signed a $4.4 million (KSh 570M) agreement with Japanese tech firm Rakuten Symphony and U.S.-based Airspan Networks to test and deploy Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology in Kenya. This partnership aims to enhance telecom infrastructure, improve mobile connectivity, and support the rollout of 4G and 5G networks across the country.
Boosting Knowledge Transfer and AI Integration
The collaboration will focus on knowledge transfer, research, and development, allowing Telkom Kenya to explore open and flexible network architecture. The initiative seeks to integrate automation and AI-powered technologies, positioning Kenya as a leader in homegrown telecom innovations through strategic global partnerships.
Roles of Key Partners in the Deployment
Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks will play vital roles in overseeing the testing and deployment process:
- Rakuten Symphony will provide the centralized unit (CU) and distributed unit (DU) infrastructure, along with its industry-leading Operations Support System (OSS) platform.
- Airspan Networks will supply 4G and 5G radio units and mobile core technology to support the network expansion.
- Telkom Kenya will facilitate the deployment by providing local resources and testing facilities.
Telkom Kenya’s Commitment to Innovation
Speaking on the partnership, Mugo Kibati, CEO of Telkom Kenya, expressed optimism about the collaboration:
“Telkom Kenya is excited to collaborate in this consortium of cutting-edge technology leaders in open network architecture. We look forward to reaping the benefits of modern AI-driven innovations to enhance telecom services.”
He emphasized Telkom Kenya’s dedication to investing in the development of its workforce, leveraging the testing capabilities created through this collaboration to explore the potential of Open RAN.
Global Telecom Leaders Endorse the Project
Rakuten Symphony’s President, Sharad Sriwastawa, highlighted the company’s proven track record in mobile network transformation:
“Our solutions deliver positive outcomes for mobile network operators worldwide. We are excited to bring our expertise to Kenya and support Telkom’s commitment to digital innovation.”
Similarly, Glenn Laxdal, CEO of Airspan Networks, praised Telkom Kenya’s bold approach to telecom innovation:
“Telkom Kenya’s decision to explore Open RAN advancements positions Kenya as a leader in Africa’s technological evolution. Airspan is proud to contribute with advanced 4G/5G solutions.”
Leveraging Global Expertise for Local Development
Rakuten Mobile, in collaboration with Rakuten Symphony, will integrate insights from the Japanese government-backed “Research and Development Project of Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems” (JPNP20017), subsidized by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization). This ensures that the latest global innovations in telecom infrastructure are applied to Kenya’s mobile network development.
Conclusion
This landmark partnership underscores Telkom Kenya’s commitment to digital transformation, ensuring stronger mobile connectivity, enhanced network efficiency, and future-ready telecom services for Kenyans. As Open RAN technology gains momentum globally, this initiative sets the stage for Kenya’s leadership in next-generation telecom infrastructure.
