Bridging Liberia's Digital Divide: Nokia and iSAT Africa's Partnership to Expand Rural Connectivity

This collaboration seeks to close the digital divide by providing reliable and affordable network access to underserved areas across the country. Over the next three years, the project will target around 200 sites in remote regions of Liberia. Talking about iSAT, iSAT Africa is an integrated communications services provider specializing in broadcasting & rural connectivity, fixed & mobile satellite solutions, MPLS in Africa and Middle East. iSAT Africa’s various solutions including Terrestrial and Satellite Solutions, are backed by powerful Satellites, African Teleports and Headend infrastructure.

Back to our headlines, At the core of this initiative is Nokia’s Rural Connect solution, which features its cutting-edge AirScale radio technology, including Massive MIMO radios, remote radio heads, and base stations. Additionally, iSAT Africa will leverage Nokia’s MantaRay Network Management solutions. These will deliver an automated and unified view of the network, greatly improving monitoring and management capabilities. The goal is to address key challenges like limited network coverage and the significant digital gap in rural Liberia.

By pushing network coverage beyond urban hubs, this partnership aims to stimulate socio-economic development in Liberia’s more isolated areas. The 200-site rollout will enable iSAT Africa to expand its network footprint, offering mobile operators a next-generation solution that balances efficiency with cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, this deployment will help rural communities access essential services, fostering both social and economic growth in the region.

Osama Said, who leads Nokia’s West Africa and Enterprise customer team, commented on the partnership, stating, "We're thrilled to work with iSAT Africa to boost rural connectivity in Liberia. Our Rural Connect solution is designed to provide strong coverage in remote locations, ensuring these underserved communities gain access to both voice and data services. This collaboration marks a crucial step in closing the digital divide and encouraging socio-economic progress."

Rakesh Kukreja, Founder and Managing Director of iSAT Africa, added, "This partnership with Nokia highlights our dedication to reducing the digital divide in Liberia. Nokia’s Rural Connect solution offers efficient, scalable technologies that allow us to extend our reach to underserved areas. This effort will enhance our position as a key provider of Networks-as-a-Service while improving lives through consistent access to voice and data services, connecting those who have been left behind."

The collaboration underscores the shared vision of both companies to promote digital inclusion, ensuring that connectivity reaches even the most remote corners of Liberia. keep in mind iSAT Africa has its POP, integrated with fiber and satellite services, in more than 30 countries in Africa connecting to the rest of world. Its innovative solutions and resilient network are used by different verticals including Governments, TELCOS, media, multinationals, network companies and ISPs.