Current State of Open RAN – Middle East and Africa

The current state of Open RAN - which countries and operators in the Middle East and Africahave deployed/trialed Open RAN?
  • Last Updated: November 4, 2024
Download Magazine

The current state of Open RAN in Middle-East

 

Etisalat (UAE)

Etisalat, the UAE-based operator, was the first to launch an Open virtual Radio Access Network (Open vRAN) in Jan 2020. It gradually plans to expand the rollout of Open vRAN across the UAE.ย The key vendors in the Open vRAN deployment included Parallel Wireless, Altiostar, Cisco, and NEC. It is using commercial off-the-shelf hardware as an alternative to traditional proprietary network equipment.


Global Open RAN: Etisalat operates in 16 markets across Middle-east, Asia, and Africa. They recently signed an agreement with Parallel wireless to deploy O-RAN compliant network in Afghanistan in partnership with Intel and Supermicro, replacing existing legacy applications. Intel will provide a 3rd generation Xeon processer, which would run on Supermicro servers.

MoU with Rakuten: Etisalat has been exploring the Rakuten Communications Platform (RCP) for some time.They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rakuten Mobile to develop a reference blueprint for mobile broadband networks and Open RAN technology based on the RCP.

STC (Saudi Arabia)

STC tested O-RAN sessions in Saudi Arabia in partnership with STC Solutions and Altiostar in Dec 2020.ย The Open RAN testing aligns with STC’s DARE strategy for a bright digital future.

MoU with Rakuten: STC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rakuten Mobile to collaborate on various technologies, including OpenRAN deployment options for greenfield and brownfield use cases. The goal is to accelerate the delivery of mobile network services via OpenRAN technology.

The current state of Open RAN in Africa (4G/5G)

 

MTN (Zamia, Mozambique, Uganda and Guinea Conakry, South Africa)

MTN has deployed over 200 commercial rural sites across its geographical footprint, using OpenRAN technology. They are projecting to deploy more than 5000 sites in rural areas across 21 operations, bringing 2G,3G, and 4G connectivity. Zambia:ย MTN technology group conducted the first trials of OpenRAN in 2018 and deployed commercial sites in 2019 in Zambia with Parallel Wireless. Mozambique:ย MTN conducted OpenRAN based trials for 4G in Mozambique. Key vendors included Parallel Wireless, Mavenir, CrowdCell, and Lime Microsystems. Uganda and Guinea Conakry: MTN has ongoing OpenRAN based operations for 4G commercial services in Uganda and Guinea Conakry, with VANU, Parallel Wireless, and NuRAN wireless. South Africa: MTN conducted 4G trials based on OpenRAN in South Africa with Parallel Wireless. As one of the key members of the TIP, MTN carries out solution testing on all hardware and software elements at its state-of-the-art head office in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Vodafone (Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique)

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Vodacom has conducted trials with TIP OpenRAN in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with Parallel Wireless. Mozambique: Vodafone (Vodacom) conducted OpenRAN based trials for 4G in Mozambique. Key vendors included Parallel Wireless, Mavenir, CrowdCell, and Lime Microsystems.

Related Magazine Content

Exploring the Intersection of 5G IoT and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) | Enabling a Smarter World

Exploring the Intersection of 5G IoT and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) | Enabling a Smarter World
Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), including satellite and related platforms, amplify the reach of 5G IoT, providing connectivity in remote or disaster-hit areas. With potential applications ranging from remote industrial monitoring to precision farming, the combination of 5G and IoT is ushering in a new era of digital transformation. Yet, challenges like scalability, energy efficiency, and security remain to be addressed, and innovations in edge computing, AI, and advanced communication technologies pave the way forward.

Unleashing the Power of 5G and Satellite | Meeting the Demands of a Connected World

Unleashing the Power of 5G and Satellite | Meeting the Demands of a Connected World
The age of connectivity we live in is marked by an explosion in smart devices and data consumption, underpinned by rapid urbanization and technological innovations. This necessitates superior communication infrastructure, especially with the rise of 4K/8K video streaming, online gaming, VR/AR, and shifts in work culture prompted by COVID-19. Despite 4G/LTE networks serving us till now, they lack in terms of speed and latency for present needs. Ensuring low-latency is paramount for real-time communications, particularly in sectors like autonomous vehicles, healthcare, and finance. Integrating terrestrial networks (like 5G) with non-terrestrial networks (like satellites) presents a solution, but is challenged by technical, regulatory, and economic factors. Future advancements in satellite communication, including improved payloads and next-gen constellations, look promising. The synergy between 5G and satellite networks will shape the future of global connectivity.

Satellite Constellations and the Design of Future Networks

Satellite Constellations and the Design of Future Networks
Satellite constellations are advanced networks of strategically placed satellites designed to offer extensive global coverage, overcoming the limitations of single satellite systems. They’re pivotal in global communications, particularly in the era of 5G, enabling high-speed, low-latency connections. Different constellations operate at varying altitudes – Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) – each with unique benefits and challenges. As 5G emerges, these constellations will not only provide ultra-fast connectivity but will also bridge the digital divide, ensuring all corners of the world have access. Companies like SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are pioneering efforts in this realm. However, while the opportunities are vast, challenges like interference management, space debris, and regulatory hurdles remain.

Regulatory and Policy Considerations for 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)

Regulatory and Policy Considerations for 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)
The emergence of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) presents a revolutionary step in global digital connectivity, but it brings with it intricate regulatory and policy challenges. These directives play a pivotal role, influencing the design, services, and the very integrity of these networks. Key issues range from spectrum allocation and licensing to operational standards and the potential cyber threats these networks might face. Given the global nature of 5G NTN, coordinating regulations across international boundaries becomes paramount, as does addressing the growing concerns of space debris. Moreover, with the vast amount of data these networks handle, policies ensuring data privacy and cybersecurity are of utmost importance. Ultimately, understanding and navigating this complex regulatory landscape is crucial for the successful deployment and operation of 5G NTN.

Security and Privacy in 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)

Excellence in Private Network Security
5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) promise a new horizon in global communication with high-speed, low-latency features. Yet, as they usher in this new era, they also introduce significant security and privacy challenges. Key vulnerabilities, such as signal jamming, spoofing, and eavesdropping, pose risks to data integrity and user privacy. Addressing these threats demands a layered approach, utilizing advanced cryptographic methods, intrusion detection systems, and innovative AI/ML techniques. As we navigate the future of 5G NTN, it’s crucial to prioritize user security and privacy, balancing the immense potential of these networks with the inherent risks they present.

5G Magazine – Open RAN Edition

TeckNexus 5G Magazine- Open RAN edition, June 2021
Get an in-depth view of the current state of global Open RAN deployments – How to successfully deploy Open RAN? Where and who has deployed or trialing Open RAN? Who are the ecosystem partners? What are the benefits? What are the challenges? Who are the top ecosystem vendors for vRAN, Radio Units, RAN chipsets, SIs. Featured articles/interviews from Amdocs, VIAVI Solutions, Small Cell Forum (SCF), and Jio.

How to ensure a successful Open RAN deployment – Amdocs

How to ensure a successful Open RAN deployment - Amdocs
How to ensure a successful deployment of Open RAN – what are the stages of deployment evolution? What are the key imperatives for operators? How to leverage the Open Network Ecosystem?
Plus: An Interview with Karpura to understand what is the involvement of Amdocs with O-RAN Alliance and TIP and the related benefits.

Download Magazine

With Subscription
AI Pulse: Telecom's New Frontier - TeckNexus Magazine

AI Pulse: Telecom’s New Frontier

Sponsored Content

AI-Powered Service Assurance โ€“ Leveraging DPUs, GPUs, and GenAI for Next-Gen Networks

AI-Powered Service Assurance โ€“ Leveraging DPUs, GPUs, and GenAI for Next-Gen Networks

Whitepaper
Telecom networks are facing unprecedented complexity with 5G, IoT, and cloud services. Traditional service assurance methods are becoming obsolete, making AI-driven, real-time analytics essential for competitive advantage. This independent industry whitepaper explores how DPUs, GPUs, and Generative AI (GenAI) are enabling predictive automation, reducing operational costs, and improving service quality....
The Future of Aviation: Innovations in Airport Technology

The Future of Aviation: Innovations in Airport Technology

Whitepaper
Explore the collaboration between Purdue Research Foundation, Purdue University, Ericsson, and Saab at the Aviation Innovation Hub. Discover how private 5G networks, real-time analytics, and sustainable innovations are shaping the "Airport of the Future" for a smarter, safer, and greener aviation industry....
5G NR Transparent NTN: Deployment Aspect and Challenges

5G NR Transparent NTN: Deployment Aspect and Challenges

Article & Insights
This article explores the deployment of 5G NR Transparent Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), detailing the architecture's advantages and challenges. It highlights how this "bent-pipe" NTN approach integrates ground-based gNodeB components with NGSO satellite constellations to expand global connectivity. Key challenges like moving beam management, interference mitigation, and latency are discussed, underscoring...

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Latest Videos

NTT DATA and Nokia Transform Brownsville into a Smart City with Private 5G

NTT Data and Nokia: Driving Private Networks for Smart Cities

Ericssonโ€™s Private 5G Network Enhances Mining Safety and Efficiency

Private Networks for Mining: How Ericsson and Epiroc Lead the Way

Ericssonโ€™s Private 5G Network Transforms Smart Manufacturing

How Ericssonโ€™s Private 5G Transforms Smart Factory Operations

Cumucore Restores Critical Connectivity for Western North Carolina

Private Networks for Post-Hurricane Recovery: A Case Study

Invences & Trilogy Networks Drive Agricultural Innovation with Private 5G in North Dakota

Private Networks for Agriculture: Trilogyโ€™s Vision

Scroll to Top

Magazine

AI Pulse:

Telecom's Next Frontier
Read Now
Download with Subscription