Moov and Airtel Partner to Provide Radio Coverage to 200 Villages in Gabon

In order to promote digital inclusion in Gabon, the telecommunications firms Airtel Gabon and Moov Africa Gabon have teamed up to offer internet and mobile phone service to underprivileged areas known as “white zones.”

The president of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Posts (ARCEP), Célestin Kadjidja met with representatives of the telecom industry last week to discuss the initiative.

Second Phase of ARCEP Project

This project is a component of ARCEP’s universal service development project, which is in its second phase. The project’s initial phase was completed between 2016 and 2018. It involved setting up 18 radio stations, which are currently available in 33 villages for Internet and mobile phone service.

In order to install radio towers or expand their network coverage into these villages, the two companies will supply and make use of the necessary infrastructure and resources. It’s possible that they are working together to give the residents of those areas better communication and a wider reach.

The project was relaunched with an order from Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the Transitional President of Gabon, the Chairman of the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Gabonese Republican Guard. Nguema gave ARCEP the task of finding solutions for the local residents and advancing digital inclusion.

According to the ARCEP official, “ARCEP is counting on the involvement of the two mobile telephony operators for the implementation of the second phase of the Universal Service development project, whose mission will be to cover two hundred (200) previously identified villages.”

Benefits of The Collaboration Between Moov Africa and Airtel Gabon

Thousands more people should be able to access the Internet and mobile phone services once white zones are covered. Additionally, this will enable telecom operators to grow both their clientele and earnings.

According to ARCEP data from the first quarter of 2023, the Internet has a penetration rate of 120.3% and mobile phone use is 169%. However, considering that some people have multiple SIM cards, it is anticipated that the actual numbers will be lower.

There are various advantages to Moov and Airtel working together to provide radio coverage in Gabon. First of all, it makes critical news, instructional materials, and entertainment more accessible to villagers in remote areas by bridging the communication gap.

By establishing a link between these communities and the outside world, it also encourages social inclusion. Additionally, by facilitating easier access to opportunities and information, increased connectivity can promote economic growth. In general, the lives of the villagers in Gabon may benefit from this collaboration.

Challenges Airtel Gabon and Moov Africa Might Face

Providing radio coverage in remote locations can present unique difficulties. Lack of infrastructure is a common problem that may need new radio tower construction or network expansion.

Rural areas’ topography and geographical characteristics can also have an impact on signal coverage and strength. Equipment maintenance and power supply in remote areas can be difficult as well. Notwithstanding these challenges, attempts are being made to get past them and connect as many villages as possible.