Wireless Networks

New alliance set to exploit TVWS potential across East Africa

Tanzania Community Networks Company, a community-focused technology, information and internet business, has announced a deal with Korean IT company Innonet, to accelerate the deployment of TV white space (TVWS) connectivity solutions across East Africa.

TVWS refers to large amounts of lower band spectrum, originally blocked for TV broadcasting and now unused. This unused frequency can, in theory, be used to provide wireless internet services.

The partnership builds on the success of a pioneering TVWS pilot implemented in Kondoa, Dodoma, where more than ten schools and community sites were connected, demonstrating the potential of affordable wireless technologies to bridge the digital divide in underserved rural communities.

Following this success, the initiative is now preparing to expand into Kenya, bringing connectivity opportunities to more schools, learners, and local communities.

Kenya was strategically selected because it is among the few African countries with a relatively enabling regulatory environment for TV white space deployment.

As Tanzania Community Networks Company explains, while many countries are still developing frameworks for dynamic spectrum access technologies, Kenya provides a promising pathway for scaling community-led connectivity models and accelerating digital inclusion across the region.

A university-affiliated technology startup emerging from the University Of Dodoma, Tanzania Community Networks Company says it champions innovative approaches to connecting unserved and underserved populations. It is also exploring the integration of next-generation satellite technologies to complement TV white space networks and ensure that even the most remote communities across Africa can access reliable and affordable internet services.

Innonet says it aims to export to the African and South American markets through the Korean Public Procurement Service's innovative procurement overseas pilot purchase project. It says its products, such as Fixed TVWS Gateway and TVWS Backpack Wi-Fi, enable high-speed wireless data service without communication charges over a distance of 10 kilometres or more.

Inonnet says it plans to expand the global market, focusing on developing countries that lack communication infrastructure.



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