SkyVision acquires Afnis

BUSINESS

SkyVision Global Networks, a global provider of IP connectivity over satellite and fibre optic networks throughout Africa – today announced that it has acquired Afinis Communication SA from Monaco Telecom SAM, a subsidiary of Cable & Wireless Communications Plc.

Afinis is a leading provider of connectivity solutions in francophone Africa, specializing in direct sales to corporate market segments focusing on markets such as energy, mining, finance as well as telcos and international Institutions.

Afinis holds local offices and licensing in Burkina Faso, Guinea and Senegal. Each of these entities will now be owned by SkyVision and will carry the SkyVision brand.

Afinis will bring complementary and valuable capabilities to SkyVision, providing immediate benefits to its potential and existing customer base. Afinis’ strong presence in Africa’s French speaking countries is complementary to SkyVision’s market leading position in Nigeria, East, Central and Southern Africa.

This transaction will further reinforce SkyVision’s strategy of developing a continent wide local presence.  With the strong influence of Afinis’ local offices, licensing and support abilities, SkyVision will be able to lead these and surrounding markets.

"Afinis is a leader in the francophone market where it has built a strong market presence and a deep understanding of corporate market requirements. Our vision is to leverage Afinis’ extensive knowledge, particularly in Oil & Gas, mining and financial services.

We look forward to welcoming the Afinis team into SkyVision and to continue offering customers the superior service they are accustomed to,” said Doron Ben-Sira, CEO of SkyVision Global Networks. "Following our recently established subsidiary, SkyVision South Africa, the acquisition supports SkyVision's goal of firmly establishing the company as one of largest satellite operators in emerging markets offering true Pan-African coverage and presence."

Denis Martin, CEO of CWC’s Monaco & Islands business, said: "I'm delighted about the prospects for Afinis as part of the SkyVision Group. SkyVision has built a good reputation for satellite communications in Africa, and Afinis customers will benefit from the combined business' increased scale and strong customer service."