Tarana Partners with Microsoft to Expand Rural Connectivity Across Africa
Tarana, the company behind next-generation fixed wireless access (ngFWA) broadband technology, has announced a strategic collaboration with Microsoft aimed at increasing internet access in rural and underserved areas across Africa. The partnership is designed to support service providers with cost-effective, government-approved telecom equipment, as well as training and technical assistance.
A key barrier to internet access across the continent remains the lack of secure, affordable telecommunications infrastructure. Despite recent improvements, many rural areas still face limited coverage, and in some regions, fewer than 30 percent of the population has consistent internet access. Through the Airband Initiative, Microsoft is addressing this challenge by working with local providers, governments, and nonprofit organizations to deliver accessible, reliable connectivity.
Tarana’s ngFWA platform offers fiber-like broadband performance while leveraging the speed and flexibility of wireless deployment. Unlike traditional fixed wireless access (FWA) technologies, which struggle in non-line-of-sight conditions and environments with high radio interference, ngFWA is engineered to deliver high-speed internet service in even the most difficult conditions. Over 250 network operators around the world are currently using the platform to expand broadband services more efficiently.
By joining forces, Tarana and Microsoft will reduce the cost of ngFWA equipment for African internet service providers and streamline deployment processes, accelerating the delivery of reliable internet to communities that need it most.
“We deeply respect the mission of Microsoft’s Airband Initiative and are excited to contribute to its impact. We look forward to making real progress together in bridging the digital divide,”
— Basil Alwan, CEO, Tarana
“Affordable and secure broadband infrastructure is critical for driving inclusive digital growth across Africa. Through our collaboration with Tarana, we’re helping local operators overcome cost and deployment challenges, bringing high-speed internet to more people and places,”
— Vickie Robinson, General Manager, Energy, Connectivity, and Sustainability, Microsoft
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