Nokia to deploy 5G-ready network in Algeria and Tunisia

Nokia has been selected by Ooredoo Group to upgrade its existing radio access networks (RAN), as well as to deploy new sites in Algeria and Tunisia. This will improve the network performance and help Ooredoo Group to prepare for a launch of 5G services in the future.

In addition, Nokia will modernise Ooredoo’s IP network, as well as modernise and extend its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network in Tunisia. These initiatives are set to transform Ooredoo Group’s networks by enhancing the mobile user experience thanks to better data speeds and capacity.

Nokia will deploy its latest, energy-efficient AirScale portfolio including base stations supporting multiple generations of radio technology from 2G, 3G and 4G to 5G; massive MIMO Adaptive Antennas for urban and wide-area coverage; dual-band Remote Radio Heads (RRH); and AirScale indoor Radio (ASiR) small cell solution for seamless indoor coverage. These solutions should deliver an enhanced mobile user experience with high bandwidth, ultrafast speeds and low latency.

Under the deal, Nokia will replace the existing radio network for Ooredoo Tunisia, as well as expand the network with the addition of new radio sites. Nokia will increase its share in Ooredoo Algeria’s network to almost 50%, and in Ooredoo Tunisia’s network to around 40%.

Nokia will also provide its AirFrame and CloudBand Application Manager (CBAM) solution for the network upgrade and deployment in Algeria and Tunisia. In addition, in Tunisia, Nokia will deploy its 7750 Service Router for the modernisation of Ooredoo’s IP network and its GPON fibre broadband solution to upgrade the existing FTTH network, increasing its share in these domains to 100% in Ooredoo Tunisia’s network.

Ahmad Al Neama, Group Regional CEO at Ooredoo Group, said: “Nokia has been our technology partner for many years and has been a part of our network evolution. Under this renewed partnership, we are taking our network to a new level of transformation to further improve our network performance and service experience for our customers. This will further empower our customers in Algeria and Tunisia for knowledge, business, entertainment and make us competitive for a whole new lifestyle in the digital age.”

Amr K El Leithy, SVP, Middle East and Africa Market, Nokia, said: “Our vision is to create technology that helps the world act together. To realise this vision, we deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today — and work with valued operators such as Ooredoo Group to create the digital services and applications of the future. We are proud to be part of these large-scale network modernisation and expansion projects with Ooredoo in Algeria and in Tunisia to unleash rich digital experiences and new value-creation opportunities.”

Image credit: iStock.com/DancingMan