#Africa #Nairobi #Internet #SHARE

Transforming Internet Connectivity in Africa

In an era where high-speed internet is crucial for economic growth and social development, Share, a venture-backed internet infrastructure network, is changing the landscape of connectivity across Africa. Launched with an innovative open-access model, Share aims to bridge the gap in internet accessibility and speed. Within just a year, the startup has managed to cover over 8 million individuals by streamlining the fragmented internet infrastructure that has plagued the continent for years.

The Challenge of Connectivity in Africa

Despite having billions of dollars invested in internet connectivity, many parts of Africa still struggle with slow, unreliable internet services. Over 600 million people remain unconnected, burdened by high costs and limited access. In places where residents typically spend up to 30% of their income on internet connectivity, the struggle is real.

Luis Munoz Aycart, one of Share's co-founders, emphasizes that the real problem is not a lack of infrastructure but rather the lack of coordination among various service providers. "The supply chain issues prevent efficient capacity distribution, making fast and affordable internet inaccessible to millions," he noted.

Share's Innovative Approach

Share stands out by aggregating existing underutilized infrastructure from large telecom operators. This strategy allows local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to access shared networks, significantly lowering their costs, boosting performance, and facilitating faster connectivity without requiring significant investments upfront.

By operating as a neutral entity, Share collects a fee from each connected user, thereby allowing providers to grow without the restrictions of fixed capacity costs. This model not only supports small ISPs but actively drives their growth in a highly competitive environment. Major telecommunications operators can monetize their unused capabilities through Share's platform, thereby reaching a broader market.

"What stood out to us was the clarity of the model. Share effectively transforms a fragmented market into a well-coordinated network that enables local providers to thrive while offering substantial improvements in internet speed and reliability," said Anies Khan, an investor at Greenfield Capital, one of Share's backers.

Expansion Into New Markets

Having initially deployed its operations in Mombasa, Share has now extended its reach to Nairobi, marking its entry into Kenya’s largest urban market. The company's network, which spans thousands of kilometers of fiber, consists of 12 infrastructure partners, 10 data centers, and 6 subsea cable routes, ensures that Share is well-equipped to serve a rapidly growing population that demands faster internet access.

Plans are underway to expand into additional cities and regions across Africa, aiming to close the connectivity gap and empower millions.

Conclusion

As Africa continues to develop its digital economy, companies like Share are essential in providing the necessary infrastructure to foster growth. By optimizing existing resources and enabling ISPs to deliver faster internet to users, Share has set itself on a path to become a foundational element of Africa's internet infrastructure. To discover more about Share’s mission and its impact, visit Share's website.

Through its groundbreaking approach, Share is not only creating a more connected Africa, but it is also shaping the future of connectivity for one of the world's youngest populations. The implications of this shift extend beyond mere access; they encompass opportunities for education, commerce, and innovation for millions across the continent.