In a recent series of agreements between Algeria’s state-run operator Algerie Telecom and Finnish telecommunications company Nokia (News - Alert) Networks, the latter has been appointed to upgrade the country’s infrastructure to improve IP broadband connectivity and mobile data speeds. This in turn could help bolster IP communications for businesses in the region. 

This summer’s first contract in June regarded LTE (News - Alert) networks.

“We had a huge demand for ultra-fast broadband network and greater coverage as the number of broadband subscribers was rapidly growing across the length and breadth of Algeria,” said Azouaou Mehmel, President and CEO of Algerie Telecom. “We wanted to fulfill these demands by building an LTE network with the latest technology available on the market. With our long-standing partner, Nokia, we carried out our first successful LTE trial, and the company became our first choice for building a superior LTE network.”

Nokie Networks under this contract has provided a Single RAN Advanced solution based on a high-capacity and scalable Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station for the country’s improved LTE network. Additionally, the company deployed efficient network management services and security solutions from Juniper Networks (News - Alert) in order to protect Algerie Telecom’s network assets and the end users’ privacy.

The latest contract expands Nokia Network’s duties to upgrading transport network sites, deploying an IP/MPLS solution from Juniper Networks with exceptional scalability and performance. In addition they will provide hardware and software, network planning and optimization, systems integration and competence training to ensure Algeria’s investments are worthwhile and productive. The contract for these services will last five years.

“This engagement is a strong proof-point of Nokia Networks’ commitment to take Algerie Telecom to the next level of communications technology,” said Igor Leprince, SVP and head of Middle East and Africa, Nokia Networks. “And, we will continue to work together in helping the operator address future challenges and opportunities alike.”

Algeria has one of the fastest growing networks in the world, as a rising standard of living creates the desire for faster network speeds and more extensive coverage.