Telekom Networks Malawi is deploying 246 new 3G base stations to improve coverage and service quality. Nyasa Times quotes the operator’s Head of Radio Access Network, Jonathan Pinifolo, as saying that rollout began in September last year and covers areas with tourism, agriculture and cross-border trading activity, including Songwe in Karonga, Chintheche in Nkhatabay, Mpherembe in Mzimba, Monkey Bay in Mangochi, Kunenekude in Neno and Khombedza in Salima. The new 3G base stations operate in the 900MHz frequency band for improved data network coverage and quality.
‘U900 uses a low-frequency UMTS band that delivers outstanding network performance in the areas of 4.5G voice fall back, mobile broadband coverage and data service experience, commented Pinifolo, adding: ‘To the customers this means that they will experience better services, there are much higher capacities to make calls and the ability to connect to the network is always guaranteed. The new sites also go a long way to provide best of class services and satisfy ever increasing demand.’