ICT experts vouch for 4G voice calls, internet

Aug 24, 2015

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) experts have tipped businesses to thrive on the back of faster but cheaper internet as competition in the telecommunications sector reaches new highs

By Samuel Sanya

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) experts have tipped businesses to thrive on the back of faster but cheaper internet as competition in the telecommunications sector reaches new highs.


Uganda became the second country in Africa to successfully make a 4th generation long term evolution (4G LTE) voice call after South Africa last week through Smile Telecom. So far MTN and Vodafone are also offering 4G internet.

“If providers are really delivering what they have promised then internet speeds in Uganda are as good as in the more developed countries. This is good for business,” Robert Fura, an IT officer with World Vision Uganda says.

“While fast internet is a good thing, telecommunication companies should ensure that internet speeds in the City are as fast as those in upcountry areas,” he added.

George Bwambale, a support engineer at Elite Computers says that 4G internet is currently being provided at the same rates as 3G internet due to tight competition, he says that this is a significant saving for businesses. 

“Some of these technologies are good but telecommunications companies need to do more to sensitize the public about their usage,” Bwambale says.

Third generation internet made it possible for users to view online TV, high definition videos and to surf the internet among other functionalities through mobile phones and tablets

Fourth generation internet provides the same functionalities but is at least 50 times faster than third generation internet.

Speaking at the Smile Telecom 4G LTE launch, Nyombi Thembo, the state ICT minister noted that faster internet will make it possible to enjoy social media, video-based communications, electronic payments, and electronic banking.

He noted that this will cut the cost of doing business and make Uganda an attractive market for investment.
 

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