The Net5.5G IP Gala Summit, held as part of the 27th AfricaCom and the Africa Tech Festival 2024, brought together some of the brightest minds in tech and telecoms.
With the theme “Bring Net5.5G to Reality, Inspire New Growth”, the event was more than just a talk shop; it was a launchpad for ambitious initiatives.
Africa’s digital transformation taking shape
Government agencies and telecom giants like Huawei came together to discuss how Net5.5G can reshape the region’s digital landscape.
And the highlight?
The launch of the Africa Net5.5G Action Plan Initiative.
Southern Africa is now the first region to implement the UBBF (Ultra-Broadband Forum) Net5.5G Pioneer Program, setting the stage for a new era of connectivity.
The project aims to accelerate the commercial rollout of Net5.5G technology across the continent.
John Omo, secretary-general of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), emphasised the climacteric role Net5.5G will play in addressing Africa’s growing connectivity needs.
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The tech behind the promise
The summit wasn’t just about visions. It also dove into practical tech solutions to meet Africa’s connectivity challenges.
Key technologies include:
- Wi-Fi 7 and 400GE/800GE networks for faster connections.
- Network Digital Maps for better infrastructure planning.
- SRv6 Slicing for elastic experience assurance.
Tayeb Meriem of the World Broadband Association (WBBA) highlighted the need for networks that meet the demands of AI-powered applications.
He pointed out that carriers and enterprise customers require a differentiated experience from networks as bandwidth requirements are constantly climbing.
In addition, the MTN Group showcased its leadership in deploying Net5.5G-ready solutions.
Group general manager of multinational clients, Magatho Mello, said his team is proactively executing its B2B strategy.
They look forward to partnering with Huawei to deliver secure multi-branch connectivity to customers through the SASE Solution.Â
This will further consolidate MTN’s leading position in Africa’s enterprise market as the rollout of Net5.5G gathers pace.
What’s next for Net5.5G?
The summit closed with an unmistakable call to action:
Governments, industry leaders, and carriers must align their efforts to ensure Africa’s digital future becomes a reality.
As Net5.5G gains momentum, it’s clear that the region is positioning itself as a global leader in the race for smarter, faster, and more inclusive digital networks.
