Project Link offers reliable internet access to Ugandans

DigitalSENSE Business News:

Google, Thursday in Kampala launched Project Link, an initiative that offers reliable internet access to Ugandans, reports DigitalSENSE Business News.

Kai Wulff, the Access Field Director at Google disclosed this to DigitalSENSE Business News, noting that for the nearly 3 million people living in and around Kampala, the Internet has not been as fast and available as it could be; online activities often sputters on pre-broadband speeds or unreliable connections.

“That’s why we’re announcing Project Link, an initiative to build a super-fast, high-capacity fiber network to enable any local mobile operator or Internet service provider (ISP) to connect more people in Kampala to a faster, more reliable Internet,” Wulff said.

The director Access Field also said that Project Link’s network is available to connect providers to long-distance fiber lines, equipping them with near-unlimited capacity to build and expand services to Ugandans.

By making this connection, Wulff said, they are strengthening a crucial piece of the Internet supply chain. Stressing that some parts of the chain are already strong through undersea cables which are bringing data to Africa’s shores and mobile providers are expanding services across the continent.

“We’ve now built quality infrastructure in between these points to deliver the speed and capacity that supports the latest and greatest of the web,” Wulff declared.

Project Link, Wulff explained, goes beyond basic access, hence, it enables local providers to offer new mobile data plans or high-speed Internet for office buildings and universities, and support newer technologies as they come to market.

Wulff pointed out that for instance that in Kampala, they hope it’s a foundation to support the needs of a new crop of entrepreneurs and innovators: the media-rich projects of a successful musician, fast connections for local hospitals, or new digital learning tools for students.
“As more of Africa comes online, the Web will grow stronger and richer from the contributions of a growing population. Project Link isn’t just about connecting fiber cables. It’s about connecting the people of Kampala and giving them an opportunity to contribute to a truly global Internet,” Wulff submitted.

Remmy Nweke

... Making SENSE of digital revolution!