Tanzania Community Networks and INNONET Partner to Boost Rural Internet Access
The agreement, signed by Dr. Hosang Yoo, Chief Executive Officer of INNONET, and Dr. Jabhera Matogoro, aims to accelerate the deployment of Television White Space (TVWS) connectivity solutions across East Africa.
Tanzania Community Networks Company Ltd has announced a significant milestone in Africa’s digital inclusion efforts through the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korean telecommunications organization INNONET. The agreement, signed by Dr. Hosang Yoo, Chief Executive Officer of INNONET, and Dr. Jabhera Matogoro, aims to accelerate the deployment of Television White Space (TVWS) connectivity solutions across East Africa.
The partnership builds on the success of a pioneering TV White Space pilot project implemented in Kondoa District, Dodoma, where more than ten schools and community sites were successfully connected. The pilot demonstrated the potential of affordable wireless technologies to bridge the digital divide in underserved rural communities by providing internet access in areas where conventional broadband infrastructure remains limited.
Following the positive results achieved in Tanzania, the initiative is now preparing to expand into Kenya. The expansion seeks to provide connectivity to additional schools, students, and local communities, thereby extending the benefits of digital access beyond Tanzania’s borders. According to Dr. Jabhera Matogoro, Kenya was strategically selected due to its relatively supportive regulatory environment for TV White Space deployment, making it one of the few African countries with favorable conditions for dynamic spectrum access technologies.
As a university-affiliated technology startup originating from the University of Dodoma, Tanzania Community Networks Company Ltd continues to promote innovative approaches to connecting underserved populations. In addition to TV White Space technology, the company is exploring the integration of next-generation satellite technologies to complement existing networks and improve internet access in remote and hard-to-reach areas across Africa.
The partnership between Tanzania Community Networks Company Ltd and INNONET represents an important step toward advancing community-led connectivity initiatives in the region. Beyond improving internet access, the initiative is expected to support education, entrepreneurship, healthcare services, and broader socioeconomic development, contributing to Africa’s ongoing digital transformation and efforts to reduce the connectivity gap in rural communities.
Source:TechAfrica News
