Another player in the provision of internet has launched in Kampala to help bridge the gap of fibre internet penetration in Uganda.
GVA (Group Vivendi Africa) Canal Box, builds, operates and markets its fibre optic networks to the home (or FTTH for short), under the brand CanalBox, offering unlimited fibre internet to homes and businesses.
With a mission of democratising broadband internet by prioritising affordability and increased coverage, CanalBox brings to the market high speeds at affordable rates.
Presiding over the event held at Kampala Serena Conference Centre on July 10, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa said having heard from the GVA team, one of the things that stood out for him was their mission to democratise broadband for all Ugandans, by prioritising affordability and increased coverage.
Tayebwa explained that prioritising access to the internet for Ugandans is a priority for the government of Uganda, and they (the government) are glad to hear that this is also a priority for GVA.
“This mission can only be achieved through long-term investments in fibre optic infrastructure in the country, and I commend the GVA team for their efforts and the footprint they have made so far. I look forward to seeing the impact you will make as you continue to grow the prevalence of broadband internet in Uganda,” he said.
According to Tayebwa, the government is pleased to hear GVA’s target of 500,000 homes passed within four years.
“As of last year, there were 30,000 homes and businesses that were accessing broadband via fibre in Uganda. So, this investment should be a game changer, and we will be following GVA to ensure they fulfil their mandate. The fact that they have already connected 150,000 in 10 months gives me hope.”
The deputy speaker however cautioned people on the responsible use of this technology and called upon the ICT sector to bear this in mind.
“This internet is for the home and the business. It should be used by the family for studying, working remotely, or relaxing at home watching entertainment.”
He commended the efforts of the ICT Ministry in supporting digital transformation and helping achieve national development goals, as well as the Uganda Communications Commission in regulating and developing the broadband sector to drive economic growth.
GVA Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Julius Kayoboke shared that they have been operating for the last 11 months in Uganda but chose to launch today with results to show the public.
He explained that there were only 30,000 homes that had access to fibre when they had just started in the market.
“We have invested Shs50bn for the first 11 months. We have laid infrastructure in Wakiso, connecting 140,000 homes. We are serious about connecting the whole of Kampala,” he said, adding that he is proud of what they have done so far.
Kayoboke said GVA has provided quality in eight countries and their quality of service can be seen from the speeds they offer.
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