Satellite connectivity has a role to play as part of hybrid infrastructure systems for Africa and can help companies digitally transform themselves and improve the competitiveness of economies, says satellite communications solutions company SES Africa commercial head Laurent Petit.

African countries are digitalising, but each country is doing so according to its own needs and circumstances, he explains.

“With satellites already in space, and in combination with networks on the ground, organisations do not have to make a significant upfront capital expenditure. “Satellite solutions can be deployed quickly as opposed to building terrestrial infrastructures, which are sometimes not possible, especially in remote, rural areas.”

Satellite connectivity is already supporting the banking, mining, tourism, and entertainment industries in South Africa, Ghana and Ethiopia.

“Concerns that the global digitalisation process is happening faster than what Africa can keep up with are incorrect. “Each country has unique challenges and opportunities regarding digitalisation. One-size fits all cannot be applied to a continent as large as Africa. “The key to success in the digitalisation process is cooperation among governments, regulators, society and the private and public sectors,” he says.

In some countries, terrestrial networks are underdeveloped while the countries are extremely large. Terrestrial networks, therefore, cannot be rolled out in a cost-effective manner. Satellite connectivity presents an immediate solution to some of the challenges.

Satellite is well suited to allow for digital switchover programmes, as satellite solutions are cost effective and can be rolled out rapidly in place of terrestrial infrastructure.

“Satellite is a solution where terrestrial infrastructure cannot be built or is too expensive to deploy. The technology can also support other infrastructure and provide hybrid solutions.”

Meanwhile, Africa is home to nine of the world’s fifteen fastest-growing economies and is an increasingly attractive environment for global business investment.

However, Africa must foster digital skills as part of transitioning the population from low-paid jobs and contribute to the creation of more high-value jobs.

“Skills development is extremely important, and education should be done at the right pace to support demand in qualified specialists,” emphasises Petit.

Supporting the information and communication technology (ICT) sector will provide a major boost for economic growth, productivity and employment.

Partnerships with different stakeholders across the value chain are key, including TV and set-top box manufacturers, to see the positive influence of digitalisation on the ICT ecosystem – whether it be the development of standards, content distribution, equipment upgrade or creation of new jobs, he concludes.