INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Mobile Technology
Vanu launches accurate
mapping resource
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V
anu, a provider of mobile
communications solutions that allow
mobile network operators to provide
service in places that do not currently have
network coverage, has launched VanuMaps,
an accurate mapping resource capable of
detailing where connectivity is lacking and
can be provided profitably throughout Africa.
Resulting from collaboration with FHI 360,
this new mapping tool will enable Vanu’s
mobile network operator customers to
quickly and accurately identify communities
in need and the most effective strategies to
address their connectivity challenges.
Currently, 1.2 billion people lack connectivity
worldwide. Vanu helps close the digital divide
by providing new technology solutions and a
business model based on small-cell network
architecture, wholesale network operations
and solar power. Using VanuMaps, the
company will be able to build its strongest
business case for investment in connectivity
opportunities in countries with lower levels of
access to telecommunication service.
“Among the larger challenges of supplying
mobile coverage to regions where it is
currently unavailable is that there has not
necessarily been a sufficiently accurate
answer to the question: ‘where are the
people who lack coverage located?’ said
Vanu CEO Andrew Beard.
precision not previously available for these
markets. This is essential when implementing
a small-cell network architecture. With these
maps as a path forward, we will now be
able to identify the communities with the
most immediate connectivity needs and
continue to work with our partners to deploy
affordable, power-efficient and reliable
mobile networks to those areas.”
“That information is critical for us and our
mobile network operator customers to
identify sites efficiently and to invest with
confidence, knowing that a reasonable
return is available. The coverage estimates included in the
maps are an aggregation based on tower
and terrain data and are not specific to a
particular mobile network operator, nor is
it known which mobile network operators
operate from the towers used to predict
coverage on the map.
“To accurately capture this data, our team
developed a series of proprietary software
algorithms that are able to produce maps
incorporating coverage, population, terrain,
propagation and other factors with a level of “The socioeconomic opportunities that
mobile connectivity can offer to traditionally
underserved communities that lack coverage
are inspiring,” said Troy Etulain, Project
Director, Digital Development for FHI 360.
“Connectivity is increasingly essential
for inclusion in educational, health
care, governance, identity and business
ecosystems. We know it is already
possible to profitably connect the
world’s unconnected populations with
innovations in both business models and
equipment. Accurate, granular coverage
maps enable the precise identification
of investable opportunities for extending
connectivity, for ensuring no communities
are left out. This unprecedented resource,
Vanu has created can provide clarity for
investors, entrepreneurs, companies,
governments and other organisations as
they launch new ventures that connect
the unconnected. Maps such as these can
also play an essential role for businesses,
governments and NGOs planning the
provision of digital financial services prior
to market entry or deployment.” n
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