THE new Express Wi-Fi by Dandemutande Investments, a leading information communication technology solutions provider, allows for communities to access the internet at cheaper rates than mobile data.
JONATHAN MBIRIYAMVEKA
This could have an impact on internet penetration, currently around 68% according to the latest Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe report.
Operating within a radius of 100 meters, the Express Wi-Fi is the result of a partnership between Dandemutande with Facebook Connectivity. This innovative public Wi-Fi deployment initiative is an avenue to keep cities connected, allow for seamless communication channels and entertainment. Digital transformation is not a future trend but a present reality.
The world has become a digital workplace and playground, and this is made possible by fast and reliable connectivity. This makes Facebook Connectivity’s Express Wi-Fi platform the ideal public Wi-Fi model, as it enables people to connect to Wi-Fi on their phones, computers and other smart devices.
Dandemutande chief executive Never Ncube said the initiative ties in with the company’s mandate to be the most admired ICT solutions partner.
“We are proud to have partnered with an innovative company such as Facebook on an initiative that further enhances our vision as an organisation to be a leading ICT solutions partner locally and in the region. The enhanced use of digital platforms worldwide has made internet connectivity a number one priority, hence the need for Express Wi-Fi across the country,” Ncube said.
The Wi-Fi hotspot service, running under the brand “Express Wi-Fi by Facebook”, will enable Dandemutande to deliver internet connectivity over Facebook’s feature-rich Wi-Fi management platform that includes online voucher purchases, reseller management, network optimisation and management, among other features.
Express Wi-Fi is a key component of Facebook’s connectivity initiative to bring more people online globally.
It seeks to help internet service providers and mobile network operators provide Wi-Fi to those who are under-connected. This is a platform that helps service providers build, operate, grow, and monetise internet access over Wi-Fi in a sustainable and scalable way.
Express Wi-Fi currently operates in more than 30 countries, including Brazil, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Ghana, South Africa and Nigeria, helping millions of people connect to fast, affordable, and reliable Wi-Fi every month.
Dandemutande has begun deploying Wi-Fi hotspots across Zimbabwe. The Express WiFi portal is user-friendly and initially provides complimentary access to Wi-Fi.
Thereafter, a user can purchase vouchers. Express Wi-Fi gives people access to fast, affordable, and reliable internet so they can make connections that matter, download their favourite apps and stream various entertainment channels.
