Digital connectivity expands in Amazon, Lesotho, and Namibia

Connectivity is expanding across remote regions in Brazil, Lesotho, and Namibia through new fiber optic and satellite technologies.

In the Brazilian Amazon, the Norte Conectado Program has deployed approximately 4,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables along riverbeds. This infrastructure, managed by the Entidade Administradora da Faixa (EAF), provides speeds of up to 1 Gbps, a hundredfold increase over previous satellite services. Three major digital highways are already operational, aiming to eventually benefit 2.8 million people by supporting telemedicine, distance learning, and digital public services.

In Lesotho, Vodacom has launched the Enterprise Satellite Connectivity Solution using Starlink’s low earth orbit technology. The service offers primary, backup, and hybrid connectivity options designed to support businesses and public institutions in geographically challenging areas, including sectors such as finance, agriculture, and health.

In Namibia, Paratus has introduced high-speed, low-latency internet via the OneWeb network. This service targets both residential and business customers in areas with limited terrestrial coverage. The launch is part of a broader expansion strategy by Paratus and Eutelsat to extend OneWeb services across Southern Africa, including South Africa, Angola, Botswana, and Zambia.