- Network infrastructure development in Palestine is hindered by politics
- A peaceful and stable environment is key to improving connectivity, fostering innovation, and enhancing telecommunication services. Challenges and resource constraints, affecting efficiency.
- Gaza operates on legacy technology like 2G, while the West Bank is slowly advancing towards 3G and 4G, facing complex approval processes.
-Breakdown of the podcast-
Challenges in Palestinian network development
The development of network infrastructure in Palestine faces significant obstacles, mainly due to political challenges and resource constraints. Anwar Abu Afifa, a Senior Core Network Engineer, highlighted the difficulty in ensuring efficient operations due to complex approval processes, geographical divisions, and restricted import of essential equipment. These factors create a challenging environment for developing and maintaining network services.
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Current technological limitations
Palestine is largely reliant on legacy technology, particularly in Gaza, which still operates on 2G. Anwar mentioned the ongoing struggle to advance towards 3G and 4G networks, particularly in Gaza, where political circumstances severely hinder progress. He explained that implementing 3G technology in the West Bank was a complex task, requiring multiple approvals and coordination between various authorities.
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The need for a peaceful environment
Anwar emphasised the importance of a peaceful and stable environment to enable further advancements in network infrastructure. The current instability not only affects daily commutes but also limits the ability of network engineers to think innovatively. Creating a stable situation is critical to fostering development and ensuring that network services are consistent, efficient, and capable of supporting essential functions like emergency response and education.
