National broadband network is launched in Bahrain

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MANAMA: Batelco chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has announced the official launch of BNET, Bahrain’s national broadband network, at a Press conference held at the Capital Club yesterday.

It was attended by the Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Kamal Ahmed, BNET chief executive Mohamed Bubashait, CEOs of other licensed operators (OLOs) and members of Bahrain’s media. The BNET logo was also unveiled at the event.

This follows Batelco’s legal separation into two independent entities, which was announced in May. As part of the legal separation, a new executive structure was implemented and new CEOs were appointed for both Batelco and BNET. Independent buildings and departments were also allocated for each entity.

BNET will provide broadband network services to all licensed operators including Batelco, whereas, Batelco will focus solely on retail and corporate operations.

Mr Ahmed expressed pleasure at the launch by saying, “I would like to thank the team involved in the implementation of this successful project, which contributed towards turning the vision of the national telecommunications plan into a reality, and is being witnessed during this event. This project is a major leap for the services provided by telecommunications companies, where all customers will be able to benefit from high-speed Internet services from all telecom providers.”

Mr Bubashait gave a detailed presentation about the company’s vision and functions as well as its strategy for managing the national network’s infrastructure.

Shaikh Abdulla said he was very pleased to announce the launch of BNET which is a key part of the 4th National Telecommunication Plan (NTP4) to develop the growth and economic diversification of the telecommunication sector, including rolling out a fibre optic network to 100 per cent of businesses and 95pc of households across Bahrain.

“The restructure of Batelco is now complete with independent management teams and human resources in place. BNET’s teams are now working on the implementation of its strategic plans which focus on the development of the fibre optic network across Bahrain and the provision of high-speed Internet services for OLOs on a fair and competitive basis. The company will continue to complete the separation process as required in line with the government’s strategy and future vision for the telecommunications sector.”

“This step is part of a series of initiatives aimed to enhance Bahrain’s position as a strategic investment destination, a regional ICT hub and a major contributor to upgrading the kingdom’s telecommunications services,” he concluded.

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