In 2007 AfriConnect, an ISP that offers WiMAX connectivity in major towns around Zambia, set up a service, based on the lower-cost WiFi technology and a Ku-band VSAT link, around the rural District Capital of Namwala, some 7 hours drive from Lusaka in Southern Province. It set up an Internet cafe; trained local staff; offered free training to over 200 local residents; and offers a full 24/7 (electric power permitting) Internet service to those institutions in the local community, including government institutions, local schools, and the District hospital. Low-cost netbooks are now being sold. A local website has been created to engender a sense of local ownership of the facility. Significant challenges have been encountered, but the Company is planning to apply the lessons learned to a widespread deployment in other District capitals, based on joint WiMAX and WiFi connectivity, with funding being sought from the UAF and outside partners.

 
Website: www.namwala.com