UniNet and Ilizwi Telecommunications (ITel) concluded a deal that will see the rollout of a Broadband network in the Eastern Cape. ITel is a licenced “Under Serviced Aarea Licencee” (USAL) for the OR Tambo district, which includes the towns of Umtata, Mqanduli, Libode, Tsolo, Qumbu, Ngqeleni, Tabankulu, Port St Johns, Lusikisiki, Flagstaff and Bizana.

Mr Andile Nontso, Director of Itel says plans include the deployment of a wireless access network, similar to the one deployed by UniNet in Knysna, to deliver Fixed and mobile Voice and Data services throughout the district. The first phase of this project is expected to be complete before July next year (2007).

Last year (2005) UniNet deployed the first “completely WiFi covered town in Africa” in partnership with the Knysna Municipality. The Knysna project provides the Municipality with cost effective communications across the region as well as low cost broadband internet and voice services for the community.

UniNet and Itel intend to offer large cost savings to the communities that it will service, including many under-serviced areas. The Health Department requirements in the Clinics will be addressed as well as the connectivity requirements for the OR Tambo District Municipality.

Full Story: http://ww2.itweb.co.za/sections/telecoms/2006/0610311042.asp?A=MAW&S=Mobile%20and%20Wireless%20Technology&O=FPIN