Bringing connectivity to rural Zambia using a collaborative approach

Abstract

This paper presents an initiative to bring connectivity to rural Zambia using a collaborative approach. In particular, it focuses on a proof-of-concept Internet service that has been implemented in rural Macha located in the Southern Province of Zambia. The service operates using satellite terminals (for connection to the Internet) and a local wireless area network. The provision of the Internet has enabled local health institutes to operate more effectively and given local people the opportunity to communicate and explore new ideas. It has also created new employment opportunities and spun off several projects including a data entry service and a sunflower farming initiative. Being a rural area, there are several challenges that hamper progress including frequent electricity outages and the exorbitant cost of bandwidth. International collaboration has been established between LinkNet, TNO (Netherlands), the Meraka Institute (South Africa) and the Global Research Alliance. With its partners, LinkNet addresses the main challenges through applied research and innovation, and targets an up scaling of its activities throughout rural Zambia and beyond