In 2022, Botswana first interfaced with 5G technology following its implementation by Orange Botswana. By then 5G was the premium technology network, designed to offer faster network support while connecting vast periphery devices, machines, and objects all in one network.
Despite the infancy of 5G technology in Botswana, Huawei officials revealed to mobile operators and distributors gathered in Gaborone this week that the new 5.5G technology was meant to reduce buffering times online and increase cloud backing up by five times the industry average.
Launching a new range of products backed by the new technology, Huawei Regional Vice President Chen Wei said that the new devices which comprise routers, network dispensers and cloud storage devices, will reduce network freezing for video steaming beyond 1080mbps.
“We have in the past noticed an increase in video streaming across the world calling for faster support in network speed. Our new technology will additionally improve campus networks, cloud centre support and smart mining support as well,” he said.
5G wireless technology is meant to deliver higher multi-Gbps peak data speeds, ultra-low latency, more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more uniform user experience to consumers. Higher performance and improved efficiency help new user experiences and connect new industries.
Minister of Communications and Knowledge Thulaganyo Segokgo said that the offering by Huawei is a challenge to local telecommunications players to innovate the distribution of such technologies in the fastest time possible to further support the country’s digitisation drive.
“Huawei's pledge to empower operators and partners to unlock the full potential of 5.5G is a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence,” he said. “By showcasing their comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions under the theme of advanced intelligence, Huawei is not just presenting cutting-edge technology but paving the way for a smarter, more interconnected future.”
Botswana has been experiencing internet challenges in the past months due to damage to undersea cable cuts in the ocean that transmit optic data. Additionally, over the past festive season, consumers thronged various social media platforms with complaints about poor data services from the different service providers, heightening the need for more efficient internet services.
