Vodacom is set to launch its own 5G network this year after signing an agreement with South African wholesale network provider Liquid Telecoms.
The roaming and managed services agreement is said to give Vodacom permission to roam on Liquid Telecom’s 5G network while also maintaining it.
“This agreement will allow Vodacom to offer customers a leading connectivity experience at a time when most 5G spectrum is yet to be assigned,” said a statement from Vodacom. “5G services are currently being trialled ahead of a commercial launch during this year.”
Liquid Telecoms announced its plans to launch South Africa’s first wholesale 5G network in January 2020.
“Available from early 2020 in all major South African cities, this latest fifth-generation of mobile Internet connectivity will enable wholesale operators to create innovative, ultra-fast, and scalable digital services for their customers,” says Liquid Telecom CEO, Nic Rudnick.
“Our wholesale operating partners can exploit our new, ultrafast 5G roaming network to build the next generation of communications and make innovation possible, anytime, anywhere. 5G will facilitate real-time remote collaboration, improved business efficiency and lower costs – ultimately driving growth in the South African economy.”
