African telecommunications company Paratus has been been awarded a data gateway licence in Zambia from the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (Zicta). 

Paratus Zambia can now deploy international gateways, cross-border communications services and import Internet data traffic into the country.

Paratus Zambia and five other data gateway licensees in Zambia hold exclusive rights to import and export Internet data capacity, which was a service that was previously limited to mobile network and carrier providers only.

"With this licence, we can leverage our terrestrial and cross-border fibre network and satellite communications to provide high-quality Internet services and import or export Internet data capacity to other Internet service providers (ISPs) in Zambia. This presents a great business opportunity for us. We are looking forward to working with them to offer seamless and high-quality services in Zambia," says Paratus Zambia MD Marius van Vuuren.

Paratus was awarded the Zicta tender because it meets the necessary infrastructure requirements. For example, its network is connected and spans the southern African region, says Paratus Zambia infrastructure GM Chama Chinyanta.

"This means we can deliver what is needed, namely international data connections to neighbouring countries. We are now one of six providers with this type of license and can import or export data into and out of Zambia," he adds.

Further, Van Vuuren says Paratus will provide a fully integrated data network service in Zambia and will build digital momentum in Zambia.

"Through this data gateway license, we can deliver what Zambian businesses need while working with other ISPs in Zambia. It solidifies our commitment to transform Africa through exceptional digital infrastructure and customer service. Further, it comes at a time when they are nearing completion of their metro fibre rollout project, which was done in partnership with [social media platform company] Meta," he notes.