As well as deploying and managing information technology (IT) infrastructure and applications, IBM plans to deploy advanced technologies created by IBM Research, including the Spoken Web - a voice-enabled internet that allows users to access and share information by talking over the existing telephone network, which is particularly compelling for populations with little or no literacy, visual impairments, or lack access to computers.
In addition, IBM plans to deploy a content management system to offer rich media content such as music and video over mobile devices, while simultaneously facilitating the growth of the application developer community in Africa.
Strategic partnerships with Ericsson, Huawei and NSN aim to improve the quality of the network across the African landscape and expand the footprint of the 2G and 3G services. In line with global trends, Africa is experiencing a surge in demand for access to mobile data applications. The modernisation and optimisation of the networks aim to give airtel an opportunity to offer exciting services in 2011.
Says Manoj Kohli, CEO (international) and joint MD, Bharti Airtel: "The partnerships take us one step closer to our vision of making telephony available and affordable for everyone across Africa, even in the most remote areas which are at present disconnected from the world. We are also laying the foundation for the introduction of 3G HSPA wireless broadband as access to content is the right of every African citizen. Mobile broadband is a catalyst for economic growth and development. Many of our new customers will have an online experience for the first time in their lives."
The Adopted Schools education initiative launched in 2010, in conjunction with local governments, provides refurbishments, uniforms, scholastic materials, furniture, teaching aides and broadband connections to schools in need. To date, 9,000 underprivileged children across 14 schools have benefited from the initiative.
In 2011, airtel plans to continue to improve and enhance the program by increasing the number of adopted schools across 16 countries on the continent.
