Seacom To Expand Its Product Portfolio in Kenya

Seacom will expand its product portfolio to include SD-WAN and DDoS protection following a meeting the company had recently with Ezra Chiloba, Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

SD-WAN is a modern type of networking solution that creates a virtual data network with the help of sophisticated software. The software intelligently directs network users to the most efficient connections to reduce congestion and optimise bandwidth.

During the meeting, several industry issues were discussed including internet bandwidth, the state of cloud computing, the national regulator’s role in the converged tech economy, and opportunities within the field of education.

Seacom Managing Director, Tejpal Bedi said: “This was a chance to share notes and exchange ideas, to understand our relationship with the regulatory body and to establish Seacom as a leading force in the provision of Internet services. We are excited about the potential for collaboration to help usher in the next stage of Kenya’s digital transformation.”

The company believes the main challenge with the provision of internet services is the high cost of the last mile – especially in the delivery of fixed connections to remote locations.

Seacom called on the ICT regulator to create an enabling environment for the expansion of ICT to all areas of Kenya through implementing policies that encourage investment in infrastructure, especially in unserved areas.

According to the company, “more investment in fixed last-mile infrastructure, especially in underserved areas, will go a long way in further reducing the cost of high-speed Internet. With the advent of more local data centres in East Africa, there is more local traffic for services, this will continue to drive costs down and reduce pricing. The Kenya Internet Exchange Point has seen a significant increase in traffic over the last few years.”

Bedi added, “Kenya’s ICT and telecommunications sector remains vibrant with various players providing the entire spectrum of ICT services. The competitive environment continues to drive more investment in infrastructure as well as innovative products that facilitate the new way of working. Some of these innovations are geared towards driving the delivery of ICT services via mobile, online & cloud platforms. This trajectory of innovation is expected to continue growth in mid-to-long term in line with the changing consumer needs.”

Seacom owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables.

Tejpal Bedi was recently appointed the company’s Managing Director and Regional Head of Sales for the ENEA region.