South African telecoms company Econet has launched a wi-fi hotspot network across Kenya, Zambia, Rwanda and Uganda to provide affordable internet access.

The network was set up through Econet subsidiaries Liquid Telecom Group (LTG) and Cassava Fintech International (CFI).

Nic Rudnick, group CEO at LTG, said: “We firmly believe that every African has the right to high-speed connectivity and with this platform, we are making this vision a reality.

“This initiative is in line with our parent company Econet’s vision of an inclusive, connected future that leaves no African behind. The connectivity network that we have created with these hotspots will ensure ubiquitous access for businesses and consumers at extremely affordable rates. This is yet another milestone achieved in building Africa’s digital future one individual and business at a time.”

Darlington Mandivenga, CEO of CFI Group, added: “We consider the wi-fi network to be a vital piece in the social and financial digital inclusion agenda that we are passionately driving across Africa. It is part of our broader strategy to provide solutions that address everyday problems for everyday people. In this case, we are offering more affordable internet access to African communities, including those previously excluded.”

The two companies aim to create a wi-fi marketplace that helps ISPs, franchisees and digital service providers unlock new revenue streams by creating job opportunities. Backed by broadband infrastructure, the service is enabling more people in Africa to access the benefits of the internet.

Following its successful launch in Zimbabwe, the service will soon be available in South Africa, South Sudan, DRC, Botswana, Burundi, Lesotho and Tanzania.

tagged in: Cassava Fintech International, Darlington Mandivenga, Econet, Liquid Telecom Group, Nic Rudnick