Openserve at AfricaCom 2024: Shaping South Africa’s Digital Future with AI and Connectivity

Championing Connectivity and Innovation 

As South Africa’s largest Open Access fiber provider, Openserve’s presence at AfricaCom underscores its commitment to advancing connectivity across the region. Pushkar highlighted the event’s importance for showcasing Openserve’s network capabilities, products, and services, as well as engaging with existing and prospective clients. 

“AfricaCom is the largest event for digital transformation on the continent, and as leaders in fiber connectivity, it’s crucial for us to be here,” Pushkar said. “It’s a platform to meet partners and share our vision for South Africa’s digital future.” 

AI as an Integrated Tool for Transformation 

When discussing the role of AI in telecoms, Pushkar emphasized that its potential lies in integration rather than standalone implementation. Openserve is actively exploring AI-driven solutions to enhance processes, improve customer experience, and optimize network operations. 

“We see AI as a tool, not just a concept. It’s about embedding AI in our business model—integrating it into networks, products, and processes. By harnessing machine learning and building localized language models, we can better understand our data and act on it in ways that directly improve customer experience and drive growth,” Pushkar explained. 

A Measured Approach to AI 

Openserve is leveraging AI for predictive maintenance and self-service capabilities, such as the Openserve Connect app, which allows remote line healing. This approach has reduced the need for technician dispatches by 40%, optimizing operations and delivering better customer outcomes. 

“The ultimate test of AI’s impact is whether it enhances customer experience and drives revenue. AI has a disruptive character, but the key is learning and collaborating—between private, public, and educational sectors—to build a strong foundation for its integration,” Pushkar noted. 

Africa’s Unique Digital Landscape 

Pushkar also shared insights into Africa’s unique challenges, such as power availability, governance of AI, and the need for localized solutions. He emphasized that partnerships with local players are essential to overcoming these hurdles and delivering sustainable, impactful solutions. 

“Africa’s young, growing population drives incredible demand for connectivity. At Openserve, we’re focused on measured, demand-driven strategies that integrate AI, cloud, and data modeling to meet these needs,” he said. 

Envisioning the Future of Telcos 

Looking ahead, Pushkar highlighted the evolving role of telcos in a demand-driven world. As telecommunications increasingly intersect with other industries, such as banking and content, the future telco must adapt to become a hub of integrated communication services. 

“The telco of tomorrow will thrive by delivering services that touch all aspects of life. AI will play a crucial role in enabling this, but it must be part of a broader strategy that combines innovation, data understanding, and sustainability,” Pushkar concluded. 

Openserve’s vision for South Africa’s digital future is bold, collaborative, and deeply rooted in innovation.

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