Barclays Africa and ISP Africa Online are teaming up to boost Internet access across sub Saharan Africa. The two companies say they will launch a network of Internet centres promising local businesses the latest technology and high-speed Web access.
The deal, announced in Nairobi, will initially focus on Kenya where a number of Internet centres will be opened in September and October under a common brand name to be announced shortly.
The new Internet centres will be the first of their kind in the region, say the companies, offering the latest products including flat screen technology, high-speed access and specially trained staff.
Both companies have extensive pan-African networks. They have a combined representation in 12 countries across Africa and the Indian Ocean - Kenya, Zimbabwe, Cote d'Ivoire, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Botswana, Zambia, Swaziland, Namibia, Mauritius & Seychelles.
Dominic Bruynseels, CEO of Barclays Africa, says the new venture will provide a springboard for the bank to export tried and tested e-business propositions from its European operations.