Eutelsat and Bayobab Partner to Expand Connectivity Across Africa with LEO Satellites

Insider Brief

• Eutelsat Group and Bayobab have entered a multi-year partnership to enhance digital connectivity across Africa. The partnership will focus on using Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology from Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation.
• Bayobab, a digital infrastructure service provider, will leverage the OneWeb satellite network to improve network performance, especially for enterprises and cellular backhaul applications.
• The service promises high-quality, low-latency connections, which should help bridge the digital divide across the continent. While services are already active in four African countries, a full rollout is expected by December 2024.

Eutelsat Group and Bayobab, a subsidiary of MTN Group, have reportedly formed a multi-year partnership to enhance digital connectivity across Africa. Their collaboration focuses on using Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology from Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation.

This initiative addresses significant connectivity challenges in Africa, particularly in underserved areas where traditional infrastructure remains inadequate. Bayobab, a digital infrastructure service provider, will leverage the OneWeb satellite network to improve network performance, especially for enterprises and cellular backhaul applications.

The LEO satellites provide fixed connectivity services, focusing on rural and remote regions. The service promises high-quality, low-latency connections, which should help bridge the digital divide across the continent. While services are already active in four African countries, a full rollout is expected by December 2024.

Both Eutelsat and Bayobab have highlighted the importance of this partnership in driving digital inclusion. Cyril Dujardin, co-president of Eutelsat Group Connectivity Business Unit, expressed pride in Bayobab and MTN Group’s early adoption of the OneWeb LEO constellation. He emphasized the innovative nature of satellite solutions in addressing Africa’s connectivity challenges.

Frédéric Schepens, CEO of Bayobab, reinforced this sentiment, stating that the partnership with Eutelsat reflects their shared commitment to improving access to digital services. Schepens noted the role of technology in empowering both people and businesses across Africa, particularly in remote areas.

Image credit: Eutelsat