Service provider MTN South Africa and technology giant ZTE Corporation have announced Africa's first 5G ultra-range maritime offshore coverage at Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa.
The partners says that this initiative promises to revolutionise maritime connectivity, enhance tourism, and significantly boost the economic prospects of local fishermen.
The deployment of the ultra-range 5G network in Mossel Bay will enable high-speed, reliable internet access in previously hard-to-reach maritime areas, bringing unprecedented connectivity to the region's waters.
This achievement, it is claimed, marks a new era in maritime communication, delivering more than 210Mbps throughput at 22 kilometres from the shore. This enhanced connectivity will benefit fisheries, shipping, tourism, sea rescue and marine research, improving operational efficiency and data transmission while supporting marine ecological protection through advanced 5G services like live streaming and video applications.
The deployment of 5G Ultra Maritime Coverage is a strategic part of MTN and ZTE's broader initiative to leverage technology for socio-economic development. This project aligns with the African Union and South Africa's vision for a digitally connected continent and country. It supports various sustainable development goals, including economic growth and innovation.
The deployment of 5G Ultra Maritime Coverage will support innovative applications such as real-time vessel tracking, advanced navigation systems and remote monitoring, contributing to safer and more efficient maritime operations. Local fishermen will benefit from improved access to weather forecasts, market prices, and communication tools. This will enable better planning, enhance safety, and open new opportunities for direct sales and global market access, thereby improving their economic stability.
