Telco deal could help 2010 WC communications

A telecommunications deal could, in a roundabout way, benefit the 2010 World Cup.

Zakes Mnisi, the Local Organising Committee's IT director, sees positive things from a potential merger between Telkom, Vodacom and MTN.

The wireless service providers might invest in fixed-line infrastructure, and the potential Telkom sale of its fixed-line assets could provide MTN with an opportunity to beef up its system.

Telkom is not only looking to shed its Vodacom share – of which it holds a 50-percent stake – but that it might offer its fixed-line assets to MTN.

Mnisi said "the broadband guys will need fixed-line" for 2010.

"In reality, wireless is not enough for the media requirements of the 2010 World Cup," Mnisi said. "The progress in terms of photographs, for example, is such that wireless is 'Mickey Mouse' – you need fixed lines.

"There will be no such thing as deadlines anymore – everything needs to be instant. WiFi is not for the media."

Mnisi claimed fixed-lines are needed to send information immediately in media situations.

Mnisi said FIFA partner MTN would have the rights to carry content for the event, but would be allowed to resell this right to other telecommunications providers.

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.