The WiMAX-based wireless broadband networks Ghanaian portion became fully operational on September 8, and covers the Accra/Tema area, an area of roughly 300 square kilometres.

This network will be extended in the coming months, covering other cities in Ghana, and planning is also currently underway for deployments in other West African countries. The WiMAX network is the latest initiative under NCSs 'Broadband for ALL and Internet for everyone' project, which is designed to bring the latest technologies to the doorsteps of all Ghanaians.
 
The Internet requires co-operation, co-ordination and communication for success and also strong partnerships, says Dr Nii Narku Quaynor, NCS chairman. The partnership between Network Computer Systems, NetSAT, Redline Communications, and RapidCloud for this 'Broadband for ALL and Internet for everyone' project is a very good opportunity to make advances in the information economy in Africa.
 
Mike Baidoo, NCS CEO, says that the project is more than just providing access to technology. It is the provision of a guaranteed DSL type quality of service and new value-added services to the wider public.
 
The combination of Redline/RapidClouds standards-based network solutions that are WiMAX Forum Certified for interoperability and NCSs ICT services will help us deliver quality wireless broadband services to the market and create an enabling environment for the countrys rapid industrialisation through the use of ICT, says Baidoo.
 
According to Frank-Charles Osafo, executive director and board chairman for NetSAT, investments and deployments in technologies in Ghana, such as WiMAX, are key to addressing poor technology access, as well as instrumental in providing data connectivity.
 
NetSAT is designed to leverage these technologies with a blend of software service offerings that enables enterprises as well as individuals to subscribe to applications hosted, managed and executed on NetSAT networks.

In other words, the real benefit to the client is value-added Internet-based services. Using a PC or any inexpensive device with a Web browser can become not only their window to the Internet, but a portal that can easily bring a customised set of applications to their desktop, adds Osafo.
 
From a technology perspective, the key to increased Internet connectivity in West Africa is wireless broadband.

According to Marc Dufresne, NetSAT CTO: WiMAX offers technical and cost advantages that will help us achieve that goal. Redlines Advanced Broadband Wireless and WiMAX certified products are the most cost-effective, flexible and rock-solid solution for our present and anticipated futures needs, covering the full range of triple play services (e.g. data, voice and video).