Afcacia

Nokia has announced a new strategic partnership with iSAT Africa to extend rural connectivity in Liberia, targeting approximately 200 sites over the next three years. This initiative is set to provide reliable, affordable network access to underserved and remote communities, helping to bridge the digital divide and promote socio-economic development.

The collaboration features Nokia’s Rural Connect solution, including its industry-leading AirScale radio portfolio, which incorporates advanced technologies like Massive MIMO radios, remote radio heads, and energy-efficient base stations. This technology is designed to expand coverage in rural areas, where network access has historically been limited.

The partnership also includes Nokia’s MantaRay Network Management system, which will enhance iSAT Africa’s monitoring and management capabilities by providing a unified, automated view of the network. This will ensure smoother operations and allow for more efficient use of resources, even in the most remote areas of Liberia.

The deployment of 200 sites will extend iSAT Africa’s network reach across Liberia, offering mobile network operators an efficient, cost-effective solution. By bringing connectivity to underserved rural areas, Nokia and iSAT Africa are helping local communities access vital services, such as mobile banking, education, and healthcare, further contributing to Liberia’s overall economic growth.

Osama Said, Customer Team Head, West Africa and Enterprise at Nokia, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: “We are proud to partner with iSAT Africa on this critical initiative to boost rural connectivity in Liberia. Nokia’s Rural Connect solution ensures reliable voice and data services in remote regions, which have been largely underserved. This marks a major step forward in reducing the digital divide and supporting socio-economic development.”

The deployment features energy-efficient, easy-to-install technologies, making it simpler to expand network coverage into remote areas. This includes Nokia’s AirScale portfolio, which offers high performance with lower energy consumption, in line with global sustainability goals. The solution also supports mobile operators in delivering high-quality services while maintaining cost efficiency.

Rakesh Kukreja, Founder and Managing Director of iSAT Africa, highlighted the transformative potential of this project: “Our partnership with Nokia is a key part of our mission to reduce the digital divide and enhance connectivity across Liberia. The lean and energy-efficient technologies offered by Nokia’s Rural Connect solution will enable us to reach areas that have remained unconnected for far too long. This will improve the lives of rural Liberians by providing reliable voice and data services.”

By extending network access beyond urban centers, this partnership is expected to drive economic development and social progress in rural Liberia. Reliable internet connectivity in these areas will open up opportunities for education, healthcare, e-commerce, and more, empowering communities to thrive in the digital age.

The partnership underscores the joint commitment of Nokia and iSAT Africa to drive digital inclusion in Liberia. Both companies are dedicated to bringing the benefits of connectivity to every corner of the country, ensuring that no community is left behind.