Title: Network coverage in the DRC: Vodacom’s challenges to connect 100% of the population
Introduction :
Network coverage is a major issue in the development of telecommunications in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite technological advances, the country still faces challenges in connecting its entire population. Vodacom, the telecoms market leader in the DRC, claims to currently cover 60% of the population, but recognizes that the objective of 100% coverage will still take time. In this article, we will explore the reasons for this and the efforts Vodacom is making to address this challenge.
Geographic challenges:
The DRC is the eleventh largest country in the world in terms of land area, which poses major connectivity challenges. With a vast territorial expanse and difficult-to-access rural areas, it is complex for telecom operators to deploy their network throughout the country. Additionally, the DRC is landlocked and has only 37 kilometers of coastline, making the installation of submarine cables and connection to the rest of the country more difficult.
Limited connectivity:
Connectivity in the DRC is still insufficient, particularly due to the geographical location of the country. The submarine cable that serves the DRC comes from the west of the country, and ways must be found to connect the rest of the country, particularly the southern and eastern regions and rural areas. Telecom operators, including Vodacom, must rely on cables linking the DRC to other countries such as Zambia and South Africa to ensure connectivity.
Investments to improve coverage:
Vodacom invests millions of dollars every year to improve network coverage in the DRC. In 2023, the company has planned an investment of more than $100 million, bringing the total investments since its arrival in the country in 2002 to $1.8 billion. These investments make it possible to develop new infrastructure, install sites in rural areas powered by solar energy and improve connectivity in the most remote regions.
Operational constraints:
Despite the efforts made, Vodacom recognizes that covering 100% of the population will still take time. Operational challenges, such as reliance on generators to power telecom towers and unstable infrastructure, make it difficult to reduce costs and prices for services. In addition, fiber optic cuts and access difficulties in certain regions complicate network deployment.
Conclusion :
Network coverage in the DRC remains a major challenge for telecom operators, particularly for Vodacom, the market leader.. Despite the significant investments and efforts made, covering 100% of the population will take time due to the geographic and operational constraints the country faces. However, with the willingness of stakeholders in the telecommunications sector and technological advances, there is hope for improved connectivity in the DRC in the years to come.