Zulu king to launch a mobile network

King Goodwill Zwelithini is backing the launch of a new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in South Africa, which is expected to begin offering services by mid-2019.

Bayede Mobile is the result of a partnership between Zwelithini, the founders of JR Capital and a mobile virtual network enablement company.

“The vision behind this new mobile network is to provide the people of South Africa with mobile access at affordable rates, enabling communities to easily connect,” the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

“I want to be part of a movement that helps provide an affordable solution for the poor and marginalised in their use of technology, allowing them the opportunity to connect and empower themselves,” Zwelithini said in a recent speech. He called for “strategic partnerships with various faith-based organisations, tribal leaders and other institutions interested in the shared vision of empowering their communities”.

Bayede Mobile hasn’t said which network it will use to offer the MVNO services. It has also not said which enablement company it’s working with.

“Initially, Bayede Mobile will be strategically positioned to leverage existing infrastructure of some of South Africa’s biggest mobile networks, thereby bringing reliable connectivity at an affordable, flat rate,” it said in the statement.

In response to a query from TechCentral, the company said it will reveal the network partner, the name of the enablement company and the backers behind JR Capital in the next few weeks.  — © 2019 NewsCentral Media