Exclusive Communication Solutions: Connecting the Unconnected
Product: Communication Services in Developing Regions Company: Gilat Telecom Start of Development: 2000
The motto behind the establishment of Gilat Telecom in 1992 was, and continues to be, “Connecting the unconnected.” The connection this motto is referring to is internet connectivity, a necessity in the global digital era. The internet offers connected populations economic growth, better health services and education services, and the ability break free from a life of poverty.
In some parts of the world, just a smidgen of technology would suffice to completely transform people’s lives. Gilat Telecom has taken this mission upon itself. Its primary target audience is developing countries: its core activity is in Africa, with operations in Asia and the Middle East as well.
Gilat Telecom initially connected to the internet through satellite communication services, and subsequently through optical fibers. The company now offers advanced communication and cloud computing services as well based on these connections.
Despite the development of communication networks in Africa, most of the continent’s population still is not connected to the internet. The greatest challenge is the lack of wired infrastructure, especially in Central Africa; therefore, satellite communication was the only viable option for connecting a significant portion of the region to the internet. The distribution of cellular communication networks is constantly accelerating and compensates for a lack of wired communication. These networks rely on satellite connections, fiber optic connections, and undersea cables as well – all services offered by Gilat Telecom.
The company’s success is the result of its ability to create a continuum of high-capacity infrastructure, and to effectively supply it to over 30 countries, local branches, and advanced communications facilities across the globe. Gilat Telecom currently owns over 1,300 communication sites that it employs to connect tens of millions of people to the internet.
The company operates in the field of mobile satellite communications in Israel as well, providing communication solutions for the transmission of satellite-based voice and data for satellite coverage in any location (air, land and sea). Gilat Telecom is traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange and reported revenue of approximately 126 million shekels in 2016.
