Open Connect: Securing Malawi’s telecommunications industry

  • Open Connect is the leading domestic provider of carrier, redundant light, and last-mile dark fibre services in Malawi.
  • Open Connect aims to be a reliable infrastructure provider in Malawi, supporting the development of telecommunications services in the country.
  • The company seeks to enhance the overall telecommunications landscape and contribute to the advancement of digital communication in Malawi.

The establishment of Open Connect was not just about creating a new company; it was about building a national asset. With a robust metro network that seamlessly integrates into the national backbone, Open Connect has been able to extend its reach and services to all corners of the country. Open Connect has played several key roles in the telecommunications industry of Malawi, shaping the landscape and providing critical services.

Open Connect and ICTAM forge partnership relations

In a bid to improve digital literacy in the country, a tech company Open Connect (OCL) has partnered ICT Association of Malawi (ICTAM). The partnership will see ICTAM disseminating ICT information to its members and the public.

It is important to partner a reputable body which will be working hand in hand to take the information out so we believe that ICTAM will tell our story from an informed perspective for the benefit of Malawians.

OCL Chief Executive Officer, Sandile Dhlomo

Speaking during the signing ceremony of the agreement, OCL Chief Executive Officer, Sandile Dhlomo, said the Covid-19 pandemic has shown that people have to embrace technology if life activities are to continue. “It is important to partner a reputable body which will be working hand in hand to take the information out so we believe that ICTAM will tell our story from an informed perspective for the benefit of Malawians,” Dlomo said.

ICTAM president, Bram Fudzulani, said the partnership also satisfies their quest to provide ICT information to the masses. “It is providing us with a platform where critical IT matters can be discussed and influence at a policy level and to bring in civic education because digital literacy is another issue government is struggling with,” Fudzulani said.

Open Connect attends Africa Com 2019, Cape Town, South Africa

At Africa Com 2019 in Cape Town, South Africa, Open Connect took centre stage, embracing the technology exhibition, insightful speeches, and invaluable meeting opportunities with suppliers.

These experiences offered a clearer vision of the future, allowing OCL to foresee and prepare for the evolving landscape of telecommunications. The chance to hear about industry innovations and success stories will significantly influence the company’s strategic decision-making, steering them towards a more informed and prosperous path.

With a strong desire to elevate Malawi’s digital presence, OCL’s attendance at Africa Com 2019 was more than just participation; it was a commitment to networking and engaging with the industry’s best, providing a solid platform for advancing their mission and achieving digital excellence.

About Open Connect

Open Connect was incorporated on March 8, 2016 following Business unbundling in Malawi Telecommunication. The shareholders of Malawi Telecommunication decided to cut off all fibre network to form a separate company that will house, maintain and develop the fibre network for national interest. Open Connect therefore is an open access network that serves as a national backbone to all players in Malawi with a well-established metro network that feeds into the backbone and a well layered access dark fibre network to reach all end user customers. OCL is the leading domestic provider of carrier, redundant light and last mile dark fibre services to leading mobile operators, ISP’s and Terrestrial TV providers.

Open Connect was established to offer wholesale capacity services to all telecommunications providers, ISPs, broadcasters and corporate customers and hence it is established to work as a national backbone to all players. And thus, providing the much required wholesale broadband services to all players and hence offering flexibility to the dynamic telecommunication industry.

Rebecca-Xu

Rebecca Xu

Rebecca Xu is an intern reporter at Blue Tech Wave specialising in tech trends. She graduated from Changshu Institute of Technology. Send tips to r.xu@btw.media.

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