NSN to expand network for Airtel Africa

Airtel signs agreement with Nokia Siemens Networks for 2G expansion, 3G deployment and managed services in Africa
Nokia Siemens Networks to expand, plan and operate mobile networks for Airtel in seven African countries

Bharti Airtel has entered into an agreement with Nokia Siemens Networks to expand its 2G (GSM/EDGE) networks and deploy 3G networks in seven African countries. Under the agreement, Nokia Siemens Networks would manage end-to-end network operations, including planning, designing and implementing the 2G and 3G networks for Airtel. The vendor will provide its energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio Base Stations* to expand network coverage to under-served areas, including smaller towns and villages in the seven countries.

Manoj Kohli, CEO, (International) and joint managing director, Bharti Airtel, said, We believe Nokia Siemens Networks' global expertise in managed services and compact energy-efficient network equipment are a perfect fit to our long-term goal to be the leading telecommunications provider in the African continent. This partnership will further enable us to rapidly expand our network coverage and provide high-speed wireless internet connectivity to our customers.”