Telkom Kenya has entered into a strategic partnership worth Sh569.6 million ($4.4 million) with Japanese technology firm Rakuten Symphony and US-based telecommunications company Airspan Networks to pioneer the development of an advanced mobile network system known as Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN).
Open RAN is a revolutionary approach to building radio access networks, enabling interoperability between cellular network equipment from different vendors.
Unlike traditional closed-network systems that rely on a single supplier, Open RAN fosters flexibility, innovation, and cost efficiency in network deployment and operation.
According to Telkom, the initiative will be funded through a technology grant provided by the Japanese and US governments, with Rakuten Symphony and Airspan Networks administering the investment.
The collaboration aims to establish a testing facility and conduct field trials to enhance fourth and fifth-generation (4G and 5G) networks, Open RAN technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in Africa.
AI-powered solutions will be integrated into the project to enhance automation and problem-solving capabilities within network systems.
“As part of this three-way partnership, Airspan will supply 4G and 5G radio units, while Rakuten will provide an operating support system platform and the Open RAN software stack to run and optimize the 4G/5G network components,” Telkom stated.
Telkom Kenya will contribute skilled personnel and infrastructure to support the project, with a focus on training and knowledge transfer for local developers and engineers to build long-term technical expertise in the country.
Telkom CEO Mugo Kibati hailed the collaboration as a significant step toward positioning Kenya and Africa as a hub for research, development, and testing of cutting-edge telecommunications technology.
As part of the funding breakdown, the Japanese government, through Rakuten Symphony, will invest $3 million (Sh388.4 million), while the US government, through Airspan Networks, will contribute $1.4 million (Sh181.2 million).
