en.Wedoany.com Reported - Sonatel is deploying Eutelsat OneWeb's low Earth orbit satellite gateway at its Gandoul satellite earth station in Senegal, installing 16 new antennas to strengthen digital infrastructure and support the implementation of the national "New Technology Agreement."

The gateway facility covers approximately 5 hectares and features a Tier III-compliant technical room, responsible for connecting the Eutelsat OneWeb low Earth orbit satellite constellation with terrestrial networks to provide high-speed internet services for Senegal, the West African sub-region, and other parts of the world.

The Gandoul satellite earth station, previously recognized as a major telecommunications hub hosting multiple satellite connectivity solutions, serves as a key node for international digital exchange. The integration of the Eutelsat OneWeb constellation enables Sonatel to further strengthen and diversify its existing capabilities, delivering higher performance, more stable, and more resilient connectivity.

Sonatel CEO Brelotte Ba stated that the company is "fully committed to the ambitions of the 'New Technology Agreement' and is proud to make concrete contributions through its investments and expertise." The gateway's role includes strengthening national digital sovereignty, ensuring the security and diversification of international connectivity routes, enhancing network resilience against technical and geopolitical risks, and accelerating digital inclusion and broadband access. The facility is equipped with secure energy infrastructure, redundant systems, and ultra-high-speed fiber optic connections to ensure high availability and service continuity.

Through this strategic investment, Senegal is positioned as a satellite and digital connectivity hub for the West African region. The Gandoul satellite earth station interconnects with submarine cables and Sonatel's domestic and international terrestrial networks, forming a robust and scalable hybrid satellite and fiber infrastructure. The gateway also connects with other nodes in the Eutelsat OneWeb global network, reinforcing Senegal's role as a strategic anchor for international digital exchange, supporting the development of the digital economy, innovation, and startup growth, while meeting the growing demands of businesses and government institutions.

Inaugurated by President Senghor on April 5, 1972, the Gandoul satellite earth station, located in the Thiès region, has become a core infrastructure in Senegal's digital strategy. The site was selected based on several technical advantages: an open horizon for optimal satellite visibility, low electromagnetic pollution levels, proximity to Dakar and the country's main digital infrastructure, and the expertise to operate international ground stations. This development reflects Sonatel Orange's strategy of building modern infrastructure by combining multiple technologies—satellite, fiber, 4G, and 5G—to ensure high-quality internet access nationwide and beyond.

Brelotte Ba, CEO of Sonatel, stated that by deploying this Eutelsat OneWeb gateway with its 16 next-generation satellite antennas, Sonatel is strengthening its historic satellite earth station and reaffirming its commitment to long-term investment in high-level digital infrastructure serving Senegal and Africa.

Philippe Baudrier, Managing Director of Konnect Africa, stated that the launch of the Gandoul gateway marks a significant milestone in the long-term partnership with Sonatel. This new infrastructure further enhances OneWeb's terrestrial network and demonstrates the shared commitment of both parties to supporting resilient and reliable connectivity across the entire region.