MVNO Nation Africa | Bridging the Digital Divide: AdNotes’ TV White Space Technology Revolutionizes Rural Connectivity in Africa 

The Founder & Chief Editor of TechAfrica News, Akim Benamara, had the pleasure of engaging with Nathi Mbele, CEO of AdNotes at the MVNO Nation Africa 2024 who shared insights into the innovative strides his company is making with TV White Space technology. He shed light on how this technology is set to revolutionize connectivity in rural Africa and the substantial benefits it offers to MNOs.  

Mbele introduced TV White Space as a revolutionary technology that leverages underutilized spectrum, initially allocated for broadcasters, to provide affordable broadband in remote and rural areas.  

“TV White Space is a very interesting technology that assists operators in reaching hard-to-reach areas like rural or remotely located areas. It utilizes already available spectrum that has been allocated for broadcasters, but this spectrum has some gaps called TV White Space. These gaps ensure there’s no interference between broadcasters. It can package these gaps to offer affordable broadband in rural areas.”  

– Nathi Mbele, CEO, AdNotes 

One of the most striking points Mbele made was about affordability. Mbele pointed out that TV White Space offers MNOs more affordable infrastructure to expand coverage which is crucial in areas where traditional investments are not feasible. This technology can also act as a neutral host, enhancing the effectiveness of 5G networks. 

This is a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide, making the internet accessible to those who were previously marginalized. The lower cost of base stations, which are significantly cheaper than traditional ones, further supports this mission. 

The potential of TV White Space extends beyond basic connectivity. Mbele stressed its importance in enhancing critical services such as health and education in rural areas. A key feature of TV White Space technology is its low power consumption, making it ideal for areas with unreliable power supplies.  

Partnerships with organizations like CSIR and UNDP are essential for the success of AdNotes’ initiatives. He stated that these partnerships provide developmental insights and build models for successful MVNOs. 

“Partnerships are crucial. We’ve proven that current gaps and challenges can’t be solved by one technology alone. Developmental insights from partnerships show that affordability can make business sense. A neutral host can encourage 5G operators to focus on building core networks, with the neutral host providing backhaul. Our case studies with partners like CSIR and UNDP have built a model for successful MVNOs.” 

– Nathi Mbele, CEO, AdNotes 

Mbele detailed plans for expanding their technology solutions, including trials in Tanzania. He explained the strategy of providing neutral hosts and affordable, low-power-consuming devices to add value to subsidized telecom towers. As we look to the future, it is clear that AdNotes will be a driving force in the ongoing digital transformation of Africa.