Gabon-based communication provider International Business News (IBN) Corporate has begun rolling out a countrywide WiMax network.
The company hopes to cover most major cities and high-density areas with the WiMax network by 2010, says Michael Mockey, a spokesman for IBN Corporate.
The company launched WiMax services in the capital Libreville, in April, he says.
"Other major cities, like Port-Gentil, will receive WiMax services by 2008 and Franceville by 2009 and 2010."
Thousands of subscribers are utilising the WiMax technologies in Libreville, most notably businesses and home users, says Mockey. Thousands more are expected to benefit from this solution, he adds.
US-based Redline Communications, in conjunction with French-based systems integrator Radiall Systems, will roll-out Redline Communications' WiMax solution, RedMAX.
Redline says its RedMAX system is the world's first WiMax Forum certified solution.
Simon Wilder, Redline Communications sales director for Europe and Africa, says Radiall is present in Gabon and will roll-out the technology. "Any technical issues will be serviced by this company."
Space to expand
The RedMAX products will allow IBN Corporate to expand its network over time and introduce new WiMax devices to its network. It will provide the open architecture required to effectively integrate WiMax with other communication technologies, according to a company press release.
"As WiMax solutions evolve, the company will be able to adapt, integrate and upgrade its platform, which will create a cost-effective investment," explains Wilder.
Radiall Systems also incorporated Redline's RedCONNEX broadband wireless infrastructure products to provide backhaul connections to each of the RedMAX base stations.
The solution will create opportunity for IBN Corporate to realise return on its investment in the network through subscriber returns, adds Wilder.
Mockey notes that a progressive regulatory environment and government policies have created growth in Gabon's wireless broadband arena.
"The regulatory body and government are doing their best to open up spectrum licences to ISPs to bring broadband-based Internet to the country," he says.
Obtaining wireless broadband licences is still very expensive, he notes.
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