Telstra today announced the launch of a new Point of Presence (PoP) in Johannesburg, increasing its network footprint in South Africa and providing greater connectivity and redundancy options for businesses operating across the continent.

Launched in partnership with Internet Solutions – a Pan-African telecoms service provider to public and private sector organisations – the new Johannesburg PoP builds on Telstra’s existing Network-to-Network interconnection (NNI) across 16 African countries, including Kenya, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

Bernadette Noujaim Baldwin, Telstra’s Head of Connectivity & Platforms Portfolio, Global Enterprise & Services, said the enhanced services represent another step in Telstra’s international expansion, and will act as a gateway for businesses looking to grow their footprint across Africa.

“Since its admission into the economic coalition of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICS), South Africa is an emerging power, with one of the fastest-growing internet economies in the world. With these economic conditions in mind, we’re seeing demand for data connectivity throughout South Africa grow as an increasing number of Asian, European and American headquartered businesses look here for long-term growth opportunities.

“To effectively cater to the needs of local and multi-national businesses operating here, we knew we needed to partner with an expert local provider, which is why we are leveraging Internet Solutions’ network footprint to extend our service coverage and provide customers the same security, redundancy and quality of service offered on the Telstra network,” Bernadette said.

Greg Montjoie, Executive for Connectivity at Internet Solutions said South Africa is one of continent's biggest economies, with one of the most advanced, broad-based industrial sectors.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Telstra to extend their network reach into the continent and provide their customers with connectivity support for growth and investment here.

“Our position as a company founded in Africa, coupled with the fact we have more than 20 years’ experience in delivering connectivity services – including PoPs in 16 African countries – means we are well placed to provide international customers with best-in-class performance and coverage in South Africa, across the continent and around the world.” Greg said.