George Herald | Rural telecommunication

Translate to:


News	Classifieds	Directory

Rural telecommunication
09:34 (GMT+2), Mon, 14 May 2012

AGRI NEWS - In response to a request by Agri SA’s Congress to consider alternative telecommunication methods for rural users, SAAB Grintek was contacted regarding the possible implementation of a satellite-based telecommunication system.

A presentation on the system and its respective functionalities was made to Agri SA’s Commercial Policy Committee at its meeting held in November 2011. The committee recommended to the General Council that further negotiations should be conducted with SAAB Grintek regarding the possible implementation of the system for rural users.

The General Council approved the recommendation and asked that the system be tested by a few members to determine whether it is truly a viable product.

During a follow-up meeting with SAAB Grintek on 20 April, Agri SA was informed that SAAB Grintek had decided not to continue with the implementation of the system as it was a too big a leap away from their core business. The company will still continue to provide equipment for the system to service providers.

In the meantime Agri SA had discussion with other service providers who are able to provide rural users with this product and service. The services that can be provided include speech communication, access to internet and email and a fax facility. Discussions in this regard continue and look promising. A follow-up meeting with a service provider will take place on Friday. Affiliates will be kept informed of progress.

Courtesy of Agri SA.