Affordable, High-Quality Fiber: Open Access Metro on Transforming Internet Access Across the Continent

Changing the Internet Access Model

Open Access Metro, launched in 2024 as part of the WIOCC group, leverages existing metro, national, and subsea networks to provide end-to-end infrastructure solutions. McLoughlin explained that the model allows ISPs to focus solely on sales and marketing, without investing in costly infrastructure or IP transit. By removing financial and operational barriers, the company stimulates competition and accelerates service delivery.

Rapid Deployment and Early Success

In its first year, Open Access Metro connected over 100,000 homes in Lagos, Nigeria, with its metro network already passing 3 million properties. McLoughlin emphasized that fully buried, ducted fiber ensures high-quality, future-proof infrastructure. Termination boxes are installed on the outside of properties, allowing ISPs to deliver services in days with minimal additional installation.

Pan-African Expansion

While the initial focus has been Lagos, Open Access Metro plans to expand into Abuja, Port Harcourt, and other Nigerian cities. The company is also conducting trials in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, with longer-term ambitions to enter Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, and other markets. McLoughlin outlined a five-year horizon aiming to connect 1.5 to 2 million homes.

Bridging the Digital Divide

McLoughlin highlighted the company’s commitment to providing quality infrastructure that addresses traditionally unconnected segments of the market. A combination of fiber and wireless technologies ensures broad coverage while maintaining high standards and reliability. This approach aims to prevent the digital divide from widening as networks expand. 

“I think in Africa, you are right, there is a large part of the continent that remains unconnected. What we are trying to do is bring infrastructure that will serve as the foundation for the next 10 to 20 years. Everything we are deploying is ducted underground fiber, not aerial, so we are delivering that level of quality. Initially, there are key demographics we focus on, but we also have a strategy to reach other segments of the market that are traditionally the most unconnected. We can bring fiber, or a combination of fiber and wireless technologies, to those areas as well to ensure they are included. We do not want to expand the digital divide or leave people behind.”

– Kevin McLoughlin, Vice President, Open Access Metro 

Optimism for Africa’s Connectivity Future

Open Access Metro’s strategy reflects Africa’s young, growing population and strong demand for reliable communications. By providing robust, scalable infrastructure, the company enables ISPs to deliver high-quality services efficiently, supporting the broader development of the digital economy.