Rendering of a OneWeb satellite. Photo: Eutelsat Group

NEC XON, an African information and communications technology integrator, and Skywire, a South African wireless network service provider, deployed a OneWeb satellite solution to address connectivity challenges in rural South Africa, NEC XON announced Jan. 23.

The partnership’s first application focused on voter enrollment in rural communities. The companies installed and tested the solution, which included a self-leveling bracket to accommodate rural terrains.

NEC XON’s OneWeb solution offers an alternative where terrestrial towers are unavailable, such as in the Northern Cape and Karoo regions. A management interface gives Skywire visibility over all customer terminals, enhancing maintenance and support capabilities. This solution caters to industries such as social development, healthcare, government services, mining, retail, and construction

NEC XON and Skywire plan to expand OneWeb services into mining, oil & gas and border security, with additional focus on the retail and banking sectors.

Skywire’s CCO, Johan Botha commented: “The OneWeb solution offered by NEC XON directly connects to satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), ensuring uninterrupted service even in the most remote locations. The team’s commitment to meeting tight deadlines and supporting our mission is something we greatly value as we continue to grow our service offerings.”