Telecommunications giant Vodacom and Orange have teamed up to form a first-of-its-kind rural towerco partnership aimed at expanding network coverage to underserved areas in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Deploying and operating networks, particularly in deep rural areas, continues to be a significant challenge in the DRC.

The new initiative will see the companies collaborating to build, own and operate up to 2 000 solar-powered mobile base stations over the next six years, using 2G and 4G technologies.

Beyond enhanced population coverage, this will enable access to telecommunications, including voice and data, and mobile financial services for up to 19- million people in less densely populated rural communities.

The partners have committed to constructing 1 000 sites initially, with the first base station expected to start operating this year, after which Orange and Vodacom may scale the project by a further 1 000 towers.

Orange and Vodacom will be sharing active and passive equipment owned by the joint venture as anchor tenants for an initial term of 20 years.

The joint venture will also offer its passive infrastructure to interested mobile network operators, wherever technically feasible, to increase use and promote a wider range of options for the population.

“With a footprint serving over 210- million customers across Africa, we have the opportunity to significantly contribute to the continent’s socioeconomic development by building a digital society and fostering inclusivity for all,” explains Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub.

“This aligns with our purpose to connect for a better future, and our partnership with Orange is a crucial step towards providing mobile coverage to people in previously underserved areas in the DRC. “Our longstanding presence in Africa, including over ten years in the DRC, has equipped us with a deep understanding of the market and customer needs.”

Orange Middle East and Africa CEO Jérôme Hénique adds that the collaboration with Vodacom, involving the sharing of both passive and active infrastructure, is the most effective approach to accelerate Orange’s ambition of ensuring connectivity access for everyone, including people in rural areas, while minimising the company’s environmental footprint.

The partnership also aligns with the DRC’s digital economy vision as outlined in the country’s National Digital Plan Horizon 2025, adopted in 2019.

Currently, mobile Internet penetration in the DRC is at 32.3%.

The plan aims to foster digital transformation across various sectors, leading to improved public services, enhanced economic growth and equitable access to digital services for all citizens.

This initiative emphasises e-citizenship, e-government and ecommerce and is expected to contribute to job creation, bridge the digital divide and boost the country’s gross domestic product.

The completion of this joint venture remains subject to the approval of administrative, regulatory and competition authorities.