Unlocking the potential of network disaggregation

The concept of open networks or network disaggregation is gaining traction as a way to build more agile and cost-effective networks in Africa. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Ahmed Bouna, Channel Director for Middle East & Africa at IP Infusion, discussed the potential of network disaggregation to drive digital connectivity across the continent. Bouna emphasized the importance of connectivity in enabling a digital society and market in Africa. He highlighted how disaggregation is empowering telecom operators, data centers, and governments to extend connectivity to remote areas, enabling access to essential services like mobile payments and e-commerce. According to Bouna, connectivity serves as the cornerstone of any digital strategy, laying the foundation for economic growth and social development. One of the key advantages of network disaggregation is the flexibility and freedom it offers to network operators. By embracing open networks, operators are no longer tied to specific vendors or proprietary technologies. Instead, they can choose software and hardware solutions that best suit their needs, leading to improved cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency. IP Infusion, as a leader in network disaggregation, provides operators with the freedom to deploy diverse solutions tailored to their requirements. In terms of product offerings and market uptake, IP Infusion has established a strong presence in Africa over the past decade. Working with a diverse range of clients, from small telcos to tier one operators, the company has supplied open network switches that cater to various network capacities. With deployments in urban hubs like Joburg and Nairobi, IP Infusion has been instrumental in enhancing connectivity across the continent. The interview delved into the significance of ecosystem collaboration in advancing network disaggregation. Bouna underscored the crucial role of partnerships and industry collaborations in creating a robust ecosystem for innovation. Organizations like the Telecom Infra Project (TIP) are facilitating cooperation between vendors and telecom providers to drive network modernization and digital transformation. By fostering a collaborative environment, industry players can collectively enhance connectivity and operational efficiency. Discussing the cost-effectiveness of open networks, Bouna highlighted significant savings potential for operators. Based on internal benchmarks, operators can achieve cost savings ranging from 20% to 40% compared to traditional network approaches. These savings are validated by tier one operators who have embraced network disaggregation and reaped the benefits of a more flexible and efficient network infrastructure. Beyond cost savings, the open network presents opportunities for advanced functionalities like artificial intelligence and self-healing capabilities. By adhering to open standards and integrating intelligent solutions, operators can streamline network operations and enhance resilience. For instance, self-healing mechanisms can automatically address network issues, reducing downtime and operational costs. In addressing the transition to disaggregated networks, Bouna acknowledged that most operators are still in a phase of evolution. While some pioneers like Rakuten Mobile have fully embraced disaggregation, others are gradually transitioning from traditional models to open architectures. The key to future-proofing networks lies in adopting disaggregated approaches from the outset, ensuring scalability, flexibility, and long-term cost efficiency. Africa emerges as a trailblazer in adopting network disaggregation, setting a precedent for other regions. Bouna commended African operators for their early adoption of open networks, emphasizing the tangible benefits they are reaping. By eschewing legacy models and embracing innovative solutions, African operators are driving the digital transformation of the continent, positioning themselves as frontrunners in the global telecom landscape. Comparing the uptake of open networks in the Middle East and Africa, Bouna noted that while the Middle East has a more established network ecosystem, Africa's innovative approach to disaggregation is reshaping the industry. He predicted that network disaggregation will inevitably gain momentum in the Middle East, as operators recognize the value proposition and operational advantages it offers. As the interview concluded, Bouna expressed his admiration for the level of expertise and receptiveness in African markets towards network disaggregation. He highlighted the agility and vision of African operators in understanding and implementing innovative network solutions, emphasizing the rapid conceptualization of the benefits of disaggregation within the continent. IP Infusion's footprint in Africa extends across several countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Gambia, and Libya. These diverse deployments underscore the scalability and adaptability of network disaggregation in meeting the connectivity needs of various African nations. In summary, network disaggregation is poised to revolutionize Africa's digital landscape, enabling unprecedented connectivity, cost efficiencies, and operational capabilities. As African operators continue to embrace open networks and collaborative ecosystems, the continent is paving the way for a more interconnected and technology-driven future.