Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a subsidiary of Cassava Technologies, has announced a strategic partnership with US-based satellite communications company Globalstar to bring cutting-edge 5G solutions to the African continent. This collaboration is set to revolutionize connectivity across Africa, with significant implications for sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and more.
Strive Masiyiwa, founder and Chairman of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm for the new 5G private networks technology. “I’m really excited by the connectivity solutions now emerging from breakthroughs in 5G private networks technologies. With this technology we are now able to provide services to large businesses like mines with their own 5G private networks that can also enable NextGen services like AI; this is huge.” he said.
The partnership is poised to leverage Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure alongside Liquid Intelligent’s extensive fiber network across Africa, Gulf and Middle East. This combination promises to provide robust and reliable 5G connectivity, even in the most remote areas where traditional telecommunications infrastructure is lacking. This innovative technology, which enhances the 5G experience and supports AI-driven applications, is poised to revolutionize industries like mining in Africa and high-end markets in the Middle East and Gulf regions.
One of the most immediate impacts of this partnership will be seen in rural areas, where the digital divide is most pronounced. For example, in regions like Northern Kenya and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where internet connectivity has historically been scarce or unreliable, this partnership could deliver consistent high-speed internet access. This would not only support basic communications but also empower local businesses, facilitate remote education, and improve access to healthcare through telemedicine.
Hardy PemhiwPresident and Group CEO of Cassava Technologies, shared his excitement about the opportunities“ We look forward to the opportunities this exclusive partnership with Globalstar will unfold for our existing and potential customers in these sectors. Globalstar’s unique 5G enterprise solution will enable us to provide unparalleled connectivity to our customers on the continent, aligning with our ambition of becoming a leading technology company of African heritage, empowering businesses and communities with the reliable and high-speed internet access needed to thrive in the digital age,” said Hardy Pemhiwa,
Liquid will also provide comprehensive customer support, including technical assistance and warranty services for Globalstar’s products. The partnership may expand to include Globalstar’s satellite, Band n53 spectrum, and IoT solutions on a non-exclusive basis.
“Globalstar is pleased to join in partnership with Cassava and Liquid, a group of well-respected leaders with a sharp focus on technology deployments,” said Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, CEO of Globalstar. “The regions where Liquid is a leader are large and growing markets for our technologies which enable safe automation and remote control of mobile equipment in high value environments.
The partnership will combine Globalstar’s XCOM RAN product with its globally licensed n53 midband spectrum, offering a unique solution for private and enterprise 5G networks. This collaboration between Liquid and Globalstar is expected to accelerate the deployment of advanced wireless technologies in Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf regions.
This partnership underscores Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ ongoing commitment to collaborating with global organizations to drive innovation and connectivity for businesses and individuals across Africa and beyond.
The deployment of 5G technology is expected to catalyze growth across various industries in Africa. With 5G, telemedicine can be significantly enhanced, allowing for real-time consultations and diagnostics. In remote areas where medical specialists are scarce, this technology could be lifesaving. For instance, in countries like Ghana and Nigeria, where there are ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, 5G could enable mobile clinics to provide services previously only available in urban centers.
Africa’s agriculture sector, which is a backbone of many economies, stands to benefit greatly from 5G. Precision agriculture, which involves the use of IoT devices to monitor crop health, soil conditions, and weather patterns, can become more widespread. Farmers in regions like the Sahel, where climate conditions are challenging, could use 5G to optimize their farming practices, leading to better yields and food security.
The education sector will also see a transformation with the introduction of 5G. In countries like Rwanda, where the government has been promoting digital literacy, 5G will enable more interactive and immersive learning experiences. Virtual classrooms, AI-driven personalized learning platforms, and access to global educational resources will become more feasible, bridging the gap between urban and rural education.
While the benefits of 5G are clear, the partnership between Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Globalstar must also address challenges related to infrastructure, affordability, and digital literacy. The high cost of 5G-capable devices and services may pose a barrier to widespread adoption. Therefore, the partnership is expected to include initiatives aimed at making 5G more affordable and accessible.
In South Africa, where Liquid Intelligent Technologies has a strong presence, the company has already rolled out affordable broadband solutions in underserved areas. Expanding such initiatives to include 5G will be crucial in ensuring that the benefits of this technology are felt by all segments of the population.
The partnership between Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Globalstar represents a significant step towards a more connected Africa. By combining their strengths in satellite and fiber technologies, the two companies are set to deliver 5G solutions that will drive innovation, economic growth, and social development across the continent.
As this partnership evolves, it will be interesting to see how the deployment of 5G in Africa influences global perceptions of the continent’s technological capabilities. What is certain is that Africa is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and partnerships like this one are paving the way for a future where connectivity knows no bounds.