Sylvia Duruson
Liquid Intelligent Technologies has launched a major metro fibre ring in Gaborone, Botswana’s capital city. The high-capacity, high-speed network aims to benefit hundreds of businesses with more affordable and secure connectivity.
The Gaborone Metro Ring is being rolled out in phases by Liquid. Odirile Tamajobe, Liquid Botswana’s MD, said the first phase will reduce data costs for small and medium enterprises previously disadvantaged compared to larger firms.
Liquid believes accessible high-speed fibre is critical for advancing telecom services and generating economic opportunities like employment. Tamajobe stated, “This project is a milestone for Botswana becoming an African economic hub. Completing phase one shows our commitment to connectivity for all.”
Targeting Gaborone’s high-density areas, the fibre ring meets surging demand for fast internet as businesses digitally transform. It also supports the government’s Vision 2036 to elevate Botswana’s economy by 2036.
Last month, Paratus Botswana finished its metro fibre ring in Gaborone. Many financial services clients have switched to the new network. Expanding connectivity aligns with Botswana’s digital growth.
In 2021, Liquid and Facebook partnered to construct a long-haul and metro fibre network in the Democratic Republic of Congo connecting to the 2Africa undersea cable.
In May 2022, Liquid launched a new Kenya-DRC fibre route. In February, a partnership with Nokia established another terrestrial link between Kenya and South Africa.
Liquid and Liquid Dataport are part of Cassava Technologies, a pan-African technology group. The Gaborone Metro Ring demonstrates Liquid’s continuous investments in African digital infrastructure.
Advanced fibre networks enable the digital tools and services driving business innovation and growth across the continent. Liquid is focused on expanding Botswana’s connectivity to empower citizens and attract investment.
According to Tamajobe, the Gaborone ring will make quality internet more inclusive. By collaborating with partners like Facebook and Nokia, Liquid furthers Africa’s digital transformation.
The fibre rollout aligns with improving Botswana’s telecom landscape. The government aims to provide universal broadband coverage by 2036. Liquid’s ring complements this vision of an inclusive, innovation-driven knowledge economy.
Reduced data costs allow more SMEs to leverage digital solutions, boosting productivity and scaling opportunities. Skills development and job creation will accelerate, benefiting communities.
