Mali has long struggled with low internet connection, with over 70 percent of the population not being able to access the internet, according to Datareportal. Due to their isolation from the global digital network, the country’s rural areas, remote communities, and areas impacted by decades of conflict have limited access to economic opportunities, educational, and essential services.
Leading mobile network operator (MNO), Orange Mali, turned to Intelsat to help increase and enhance broadband connectivity throughout the country. This partnership is a prime example of how satellite technology can improve lives and close the digital divide in areas where traditional infrastructure is either unreliable or unavailable.
Overcoming Connectivity Challenges
Due to its diverse and often inaccessible terrain, internet access in Mali felt nearly impossible. The lack of infrastructure, especially in rural and conflict affected areas, hindered the country’s efforts to achieve its goal for digital transformation and economic growth. Orange Mali worked with Intelsat to a create a reliable, scalable, and cost-effective satellite-based solution. High-speed 3G and 4G connectivity were made available to remote communities throughout the nation by leveraging the capabilities of Intelsat’s cutting-edge satellites.
Intelsat’s Satellite-Powered Solution
“The welfare of communities and their citizens is increasingly linked to the ability to access reliable connectivity services,” said Jean Philippe Gillet, SVP at Intelsat. By leveraging Intelsat 23 and Intelsat 10-02 satellites, internet is now being delivered to the people of Mali. A satellite powered solution helps overcome the difficulties of traditional terrestrial networks by providing fast, secure, and scalable connectivity to the most underserved parts of the country.
The Impact of Satellite Connectivity in Mali
This partnership has transformed the nation’s connectivity by providing high speed access to more than 60 sites in 30 different areas, reaching 360,000 people who were previously cut off from the global network. Especially in rural areas like Kabala, the increased satellite capacity has sparked economic growth, job creation, and new business opportunities. Along with encouraging displaced people to return home, the increased connectivity has also promoted social empowerment, particularly for women, by making it possible for them to access healthcare, education, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Mali’s economic and digital progress has truly been accelerated by this partnership.
A Partnership for Lasting Change
The collaboration between Orange Mali and Intelsat is a groundbreaking example of how satellite technology can bridge the digital divide in underserved and isolated areas.
