The Rivada Outernet is a next-gen LEO satellite constellation designed to provide gigabit-speed connectivity to any point on the globe, without needing to touch the public internet or any third-party infrastructure.
Q-KON, a satellite communications provider, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rivada Space Networks to introduce cutting-edge satellite connectivity solutions aimed at accelerating digital transformation and expanding network infrastructure across Africa and beyond.
The partnership will see Q-KON utilise Rivadas Outerneta next-generation Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellationto enhance the resilience and cybersecurity of specialised data networks across the continent. The move is particularly significant for sectors such as banking and finance, where secure infrastructure and robust data protection are paramount.
Rivadas Outernet is designed to deliver gigabit-speed, bi-directional connectivity with global reach, offering an advanced solution that bypasses public internet routes and third-party infrastructure. The constellation features inter-satellite laser links and onboard processing, enabling data to travel entirely in space from its point of origin to its final destination. This results in lower latency than even long-distance terrestrial fiber, while ensuring ultra-secure transmission across a unique optical mesh network.
The collaboration comes at a time when data sovereignty and network resilience are increasingly critical for digital growth in Africa. As LEO services gain traction on the continent, the Outernet presents a future-ready infrastructure that not only meets but exceeds the rising demands for high-speed, low-latency, and highly secure connectivity. Its capabilities will unlock new opportunities for digital innovation, from enterprise solutions to government and industrial applications.
Dr Dawie de Wet, Group CEO of Q-KON, said: “We are pleased to start working with Rivada to develop specialised LEO solutions for the advanced enterprise, industry and government markets in Africa and to complement our growing Twoobii LEO Smart Satellite Services portfolio. We view the Outernet as an evolution on the LEO architecture roadmap that will follow-on and advance the industry from the classic broadband LEO services currently being deployed in Africa, to unlock bespoke applications and high-security service-specific user applications.”
Declan Ganley, CEO of Rivada Space Networks, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Q-KON supporting the development of communications across Africa. Rivada’s Outernet is what data communications has been waiting for a game-changing constellation which re-defines connectivity in terms of security, latency, capacity, efficiency, and coverage. As a completely new type of LEO constellation, the Outernet can provide Africa with a next-generation digital infrastructure for secure, resilient communications and network expansion.”
