Vanu Inc launches accurate wireless connectivity mapping resource
VanuMaps has been launched in Africa

Vanu Inc launches accurate wireless connectivity mapping resource

Vanu, a provider of mobile communications solutions that allow mobile network operators to provide service in places that do not currently have network coverage, has launched VanuMaps, an unprecedentedly accurate mapping resource capable of detailing where connectivity is lacking and can be provided profitably throughout Africa.

Resulting from collaboration with FHI 360, this new mapping tool will enable Vanu’s mobile network operator customers to quickly and accurately identify communities in need and the most effective strategies to address their connectivity challenges.

Currently, 1.2 billion people lack connectivity worldwide. Vanu helps close the digital divide by providing new technology solutions and a business model based on small-cell network architecture, wholesale network operations and solar power. Using VanuMaps, the company will be able to build its strongest business case for investment in connectivity opportunities in countries with lower levels of access to telecommunication service.

“Among the larger challenges of supplying mobile coverage to regions where it is currently unavailable is that there has not necessarily been a sufficiently accurate answer to the question: ‘where are the people who lack coverage located?’ said Vanu CEO Andrew Beard.

“That information is critical for us and our mobile network operator customers to identify sites efficiently and to invest with confidence, knowing that a reasonable return is available.

“To accurately capture this data, our team developed a series of proprietary software algorithms that are able to produce maps incorporating coverage, population, terrain, propagation and other factors with a level of precision not previously available for these markets. This is essential when implementing a small-cell network architecture. With these maps as a path forward, we will now be able to identify the communities with the most immediate connectivity needs and continue to work with our partners to deploy affordable, power-efficient and reliable mobile networks to those areas.”

The coverage estimates included in the maps are an aggregation based on tower and terrain data and are not specific to a particular mobile network operator, nor is it known which mobile network operators operate from the towers used to predict coverage on the map.

“The socioeconomic opportunities that mobile connectivity can offer to traditionally undeserved communities that lack coverage are inspiring,” said Troy Etulain, Project Director, Digital Development for FHI 360.

“Connectivity is increasingly essential for inclusion in educational, health care, governance, identity and business ecosystems.  We know it is already possible to profitably connect the world’s unconnected populations with innovations in both business models and equipment. Accurate, granular coverage maps enable the precise identification of investable opportunities for extending connectivity, for ensuring no communities are left out. This unprecedented resource Vanu has created can provide clarity for investors, entrepreneurs, companies, governments and other organisations as they launch new ventures that connect the unconnected. Maps such as these can also play an essential role for businesses, governments and NGOs planning the provision of digital financial services prior to market entry or deployment.”

Click below to share this article

Browse our latest issue

Intelligent CIO Africa

View Magazine Archive