INTERNET
By John Churu, Gaborone, Botswana
Orange Botswana has done it again, this time with a superfast 4G launch. Superfast services are available for consumers and businesses for the first time ever from Friday the 13th as Orange, Botswana most advanced digital communications company, launches its new 4G service in Gaborone.
According to Boga Chilinde, Public Relations Manager, “The launch is set to offer a timely boost to the local economy offering firms the opportunity to increase innovation, boost productivity and cut costs, as has been the experience of companies in countries such as the UK, US, Sweden, Japan, Germany and South Africa since the technology was first introduced.”
Dr. Patrick Benon, the CEO at Orange, said: “Today is a landmark day for our company, the Botswana mobile industry and, most importantly, the country’s businesses and consumers as we launch 4G in Gaborone. But this is just the start as our 4G network will continue to grow stronger and wider by the day. We’re investing millions in our network to be the first company to offer mobile 4G in Botswana, alongside our existing 2G and 3G networks. Combined with our brand new Orange Shops we have a pioneering and unique offer to customers across the Botswana –superfast speeds on the move and expert service in nearly every major town and village in Botswana.”
A statement from the company says the Orange’s 4G service comes at no extra cost. “However to use 4G Orange customers need to have a 4G capable device and swap their existing simcard out for a 4G simcard. This can be done at any Orange Shop.”
The new 4G service allows users to: access the web on the go in an instant, download large email attachments quicker than ever, watch live TV on the move without buffering, Download high-definition movies in minutes, play live multiplayer games on the go and make high quality video calls on the move among other things.
Global studies into 4G’s business benefits reveal that businesses expect 4G to help increase productivity (58%) and boost employee well-being and motivation (38%). The technology will also help firms compete through innovation – 50% want 4G so they can set up an internet connection quickly without having to wait for a fixed line to be installed. This is a boon for retailers wanting to set up a pop-up shop, or builders looking to set up a temporary office onsite.
