adminKennedy Chingombe
GOVERNMENT is pushing for a framework that will allow TelOne’s fibre optic network to ride on already existent infrastructure deployed by Zesa subsidiary, Powertel.Government believes that infrastructure sharing by telecommunication companies will help them capitalise on efficiencies and cut costs.
Powertel mainly relies on an overhead composite optical fibre — supported by pylons — as opposed to the optical ground wire whose deployment involves seeking permission from local authorities through which the cable passes.
At TelOne’s AGM on June 24, 2016, Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa said Cabinet was proposing an infrastructure sharing framework for public entities to cut costs and promote cheaper data packages for consumers.
“We took a decision in Cabinet that TelOne fibre optic should ride on Zesa power lines although no significant progress has been made so far in that regard. You are aware that we also took a decision to consolidate the infrastructure for NetOne and Powertel under the auspices of TelOne. However, this is the more complex process of all and l don’t expect that there is progress made to talk about at the moment.
“I promise that l will engage the minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services and that of Energy and Power Development in trying to work out some challenges affecting this issue,” said Minister Chinamasa.
TelOne corporate communications manager Mrs Melody Harry told The Sunday Mail Business that State-owned entities were duty-bound to act on any Cabinet policy pronouncements.
“In this case, Government is looking to rollout fibre backbone infrastructure and the cost-effective way is to effect a rollout of Optical Ground Wire through hanging TelOne fibre on Zesa electric pylons. More conveniently, Zesa infrastructure is more extensively distributed to all corners of the country and this will ensure faster rollout of optic fibre infrastructure.
“The benefits realised by this method of fibre deployment are that, there is no trenching required to bury the fibre translating to savings on civil work costs,” said Mrs Harry.
Overhead cables riding on Zesa’s infrastructure are widely considered to be secure due to their high voltage.
Powertel’s fibre optic network is connected to the African cable system, Seacom — a submarine high speed network operator.
While private telecommunication companies have been reluctant to open their infrastructure to competitors, TelOne hosts more than 10 operators throughout its network on towers, ducts and exchange facilities.
The parastatal has some of its network elements co-located on other operators’ facilities as well.
Explained Mrs Harry: “Notwithstanding the fact that we are already receiving rental income from those players as well as eliminating unnecessary duplication, the sharing of infrastructure can be extended across sectors like energy and telecommunications.”
Online Reporter