In a landmark move for Central Africa’s industrial digitalization, Airtel Congo and Wing Wah, a Congolese oil subsidiary of China’s Southernpec, have teamed up to deploy the first private telecom network in Congo-Brazzaville. This five-year agreement aims to bolster digital infrastructure in the energy sector, starting with the Banga Kayo oil field in Kouilou.

Oilfield Connectivity Challenges in Remote Areas

Oil field operations like Banga Kayo present unique connectivity challenges—vast remote areas, high safety demands, and the need for real-time data exchange. Traditional telecom networks often fall short in addressing these specific industrial requirements.

Without a reliable, secure, and dedicated network, oil companies face operational delays, safety risks, and inefficiencies. In regions like Congo-Brazzaville, where infrastructure development is still evolving, these hurdles are even more pronounced.

Private Network Solution for Wing Wah’s Oil Operations

To overcome these challenges, Airtel Congo is deploying a Private Network tailored to Wing Wah’s oilfield operations. This bespoke setup will provide low-latency, high-capacity wireless connectivity, enabling real-time monitoring, remote control of equipment, and seamless internal communication.

The network will be built with a focus on network security, reliability, and scalability. It lays the groundwork not only for more efficient operations but also for future integration with advanced technologies like AI and IoT-based systems.

Industry Backing and Strategic Value of the Deployment

According to a statement by Airtel Congo, this initiative is a first-of-its-kind deployment in the country and is being positioned as a foundational element in the digital transformation of industrial sectors across Central Africa.

Their post emphasized that the network is “a major asset for optimizing the management of this strategic site,” underlining both its technical and strategic value to Wing Wah.

Future-Proof Tech Stack: 5G, LTE, and Edge Computing

While specific technology details haven’t been disclosed, it is likely that the network is based on 4G/LTE or possibly 5G-ready architecture—providing future-proof capacity for automation, IoT, and data-heavy applications. Airtel Congo will handle the design, deployment, and ongoing management of the infrastructure, ensuring it meets stringent industrial standards.

Given the isolated nature of the oil field, technologies like Edge Computing may also be integrated in future phases for local data processing and resilience.

Key Benefits of a Dedicated Oilfield Private Network

The private network unlocks several advantages:

• Improved operational efficiency through real-time data sharing

• Enhanced safety and security with isolated and protected communications

• Reduced downtime thanks to reliable, low-latency connectivity

• Scalability to integrate advanced solutions like automation and AI

• Support for long-term digital transformation across energy operations

Impact on Central Africa’s Energy and Telecom Sectors

This deployment marks a significant step for the energy sector in Central Africa, particularly in oil and gas operations. By introducing a robust digital backbone, Wing Wah sets a precedent for other players in the region to adopt similar private networks.

Moreover, this aligns with broader trends across Africa, where telecom operators and industrial companies are partnering to bridge the infrastructure gap.

Airtel Congo’s Lead Role in Enterprise Network Development

Airtel Congo is leading the network design, deployment, and management. This project highlights the company’s strategic pivot toward enterprise connectivity solutions. It also complements Airtel Africa’s wider regional initiatives, including infrastructure sharing and fiber expansion across Mozambique, Tanzania, and the DRC.

Wing Wah’s Investment in Digital Oilfield Infrastructure

Wing Wah, backed by Chinese energy group Southernpec, plays a crucial role by investing in digital infrastructure as part of its $2 billion energy project in Congo. Their commitment demonstrates how private oil companies can drive innovation and modernize operations with tailored telecom partnerships.

Deployment Status and Project Rollout Timeline

As of August 2025, the agreement has been signed, and deployment is underway. Both companies have affirmed their commitment to deliver the full solution over the five-year term.

• August 2025: Official announcement and signing of the partnership

• 2025–2026: Initial deployment phase at the Banga Kayo oil field

• 2026–2030: Full network operations and possible expansion to other sites

Stakeholder Support for Congo’s Industrial Digitalization

Djibril Tobe, Managing Director of Airtel Congo, said, “This partnership illustrates our constant commitment to innovation and to harnessing connectivity to advance the economic development of Congo-Brazzaville.”

The initiative is also being recognized by stakeholders in the region as a step toward industrial modernization, economic empowerment, and digital infrastructure development.