Satellite communication provider SES has paired with Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) to deliver a network upgrade at more than 200 cell sites across Côte d’Ivoire.

The sites now have 2G and 3G mobile data services, according to SES, with the aim of the project to extend affordable connectivity to more than 500,000 people in rural and previously underserved areas.

The network upgrades were completed between May and June of this year.

AMN builds, owns, operates, and maintains mobile network infrastructure, delivering services for the biggest MNOs in Africa.

The company specializes in connecting rural areas across sub-Saharan Africa. AMN is an OEM for its own RAN equipment, while its platform supports 2G, 3G, 4G, and future 5G on a single unit.

The company has been building network infrastructure in Côte d’Ivoire since 2022 and now operates more than 300 sites in the market, providing telecommunications services via SES satellites to more than 700,000 people.

According to SES, construction for the next phase of expansion, which aims to bring the total network to 360 sites by year-end 2025. The company’s first 4G sites are expected to go live in November 2025.

SES states that this will provide faster, more reliable connectivity for mobile operators and their customers, as mobile data usage increases.

“These upgrades not only bring Internet access to remote regions but also empower local businesses, farmers, and families through digital inclusion,” said Michael Darcy, CEO, AMN. “Connectivity is a catalyst for economic growth, by extending reliable voice and data services to rural areas, we are helping communities unlock new opportunities for learning, trade, and innovation.”

AMN secured a $20 million loan package in 2023 as part of plans to expand the rollout of telecom services to rural and ultra-rural Africa. The company currently operates more than 4,200 base stations.