Connectivity Providers Database

From: Osay_Osman_Yuuni@gam.healthnet.org To: sghuter@nsrc.org Date: Fri, 15 Nov 96 08:28:40 -0500 Hi Steve! This is the situation in the Gambia. Currently there are two fidonet networks, Healthnet and Geisnet. Healthnet is a network of health practitioners though we take on traffic for Non-governmental and educational institutions. Geisnet is a government network set up for environmental issues. It was set up with the help of the UNDP. In addition to these, the PTT here, GAMTEL has been running a public data network called GAMNET which is 9600pbs X.25 packet network. The have recently taken a franchise on Compuserv and so are able to offer online services including web access. The Medical Research Council Laboratories, my institution has plans to install a 64kbps satellite link to the Internet but is having problems finding the funds to implement the plan (any pointers to potential sponsors will be appreciated). The PTT is also working on a plan to set up an IP network in the country to link major towns in the country. It has a fibre optic cable running the length of the country and wishes to provided IP services over these lines. The initial plan is to have a hub down the coast with four routers spread across the country. They hope to set up IP kiosks where people can use IP services, particularly email to various parts of the country. Funding is being sought from the World Bank and UNESCO. They hope that after the completion of this phase they will find money to install a VSAT terminal for access to the Internet, though I have advised against a VSAT terminal. I have asked them to put in for a satellite link (PANAMSAT @ $70,000 for 64kbps ground station). We are also working on a plan to link up the two international research institutions (the MRC and International Trypanosomiasis Control, ITC) together. The MRC is putting in place its local area networks but the ITC has not started anything yet. We intend to finally connect the fledgling University College and a few more educational institutions to this network. So in a jiffy, this is the state of networking here. You must view all this in the context of the current political climate. Priorities are not currently tilted towards networking. HTH Cheers Osay