April 10, 2007
By Tammy O'Reilly
THE City has received an overwhelming response to its request for a partner to establish a citywide broadband network.
A total of 24 submissions were received in the request for information (RFI) stage of the Joburg Broadband Network Project (JBNP); the deadline for submissions was 30 March.
Of these, a shortlist of suitable candidates will be compiled which will be asked to build demonstration networks to showcase their technology, operational and project management skills.
The RFI process aims to identify a suitable partner that will not only bring the required funding, but will also have the skills to manage a telecommunications and information technology infrastructure business based on open standards.
"We are thrilled by the high level of interest reflected by the numerous RFI responses and we believe that the success of the JBNP depends on the continued interest and contribution of the private sector," says Douglas Cohen of the City's Department of Economic Development.
Johannesburg intends to develop a citywide broadband network in line with international trends in municipal broadband deployment.
Broadband refers to a telecommunications system in which a wide band of frequencies is able to transmit information. It allows more information to be exchanged faster, and at a lower cost. It is mainly used for internet access, but it is also used to transmit television signals, at call centres, for telephone communications and in business.
The aim of the R500-million JBNP is to bring down telecommunications costs for the City; it will also help to increase the availability and accessibility of telecommunications to improve service delivery, education and economic development.
Such a network is also vital to cater for Joburg's needs leading up to the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup and the anticipated demand for telecommunications at that time.
The successful bidder is expected to be appointed by the end of the year.
For more information email broadband@joburg.org.za or contact Douglas Cohen on 011 358 3870.
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