Optical & Fixed Networks

Power and telecoms groups to explore infrastructure sharing in Cameroon

Power and telecoms groups to explore infrastructure sharing in Cameroon

State-owned national telecommunications and internet service provider Cameroon Telecommunications (Camtel) and the state electricity utility Socadel have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore infrastructure sharing in Cameroon.

The aim of such an initiative would be to reduce deployment costs, improve network resilience and strengthen service delivery in Cameroon.

The agreement, signed last Friday, establishes a framework for consultations on opportunities to share existing networks and infrastructure between the two companies.

Concrete details and timetables would appear to be some way off. However, the proposed cooperation suggests that Camtel could expand fibre-optic deployment by using selected Socadel infrastructure and rights of way. As the Ecofin news agency points out, this could help diversify transmission routes and strengthen the resilience of Camtel's network, from the national backbone to the last mile.

For Socadel, access to Camtel’s connectivity capabilities could support the interconnection of its agencies, operational centres and other strategic sites, contributing to the modernisation of its electricity network.

Also important is that fact that there could be fewer requirements for new infrastructure. The companies say that the initiative would help maximise the value of existing infrastructure investments while improving efficiency and limiting the costs associated with deploying new networks.

However, it’s very early days yet. Further studies will focus on determining the technical, legal and economic arrangements for the proposed infrastructure sharing, while ensuring compliance with safety requirements and preserving each company’s responsibilities.



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