Bharti Airtel has launched 4G service in Seychelles, which is the operator’s first commercial LTE network in Africa.
Airtel said the network is expected to cover 10,000 LTE (Long Term Evolution) subscribers in the first phase.
“Airtel has launched the service on a state-of-the-art network based on FD-LTE, making the Seychelles amongst the first countries in sub Saharan Africa to commercially deploy this cutting-edge technology,” the company said in a statement.
The infrastructure is a new, nationwide LTE 800 MHz network, which will meet the growing customer demand for mobile broadband services, it added.
“We already have Africa’s widest 3G footprint, being present in 17 countries. We are delighted to now provide leadership in setting the technology standard for 4G services in Africa by rolling out this cutting edge LTE network,” Airtel Africa CEO Christian de Faria said.
The company said this 4G network is expected to cover 10,000 LTE subscribers in the first phase and will greatly enhance connectivity, giving its customers an improved smartphone experience, with faster web browsing, downloads and improved quality of service.
The network was launched by Vice President of Seychelles government Danny Fure.
“The deployment of the next generation mobile network across the Seychelles will enable an enhanced mobile experience and reliable services, Fure said.