Nov 12 2010
Convergence Partners, an investment management company, along with Internet Solutions and Cell C has established a new organization to deploy an open access optical fiber network throughout South Africa.
The new company, FiberCo Telecommunications, will deploy a 12,000 km fiber- optic network across the country.
The three companies are expected to spend a maximum of R5 billion to roll out the fiber-optic network in three stages. The first stage will involve in deploying a 4500 km core ring that will connect Durban, Cape Town and Gauteng to cable landing stations in the next two years.
Cell C’s wireless network will offer the platform for colocating the optical transmission devices at the base stations. The network will also provide wireless access solutions for FiberCo’s clients.
Neotel, Vodacom, and MTN have also collaborated to develop fiber backhaul networks between Cape Town and Johannesburg and Durban and Johannesburg. The fiber backhaul networks are already under development.
Broadband Infraco has also produced its own international and national fiber-optic networks to help eliminate the hindrances that hamper the private sector development.
Source: http://www.is.co.za/