IPTV Service ‘SAFIR’ Drives Algeria’s FTTH Rollout

February 17th, 2010. Paris, France. Netgem (www.netgem.com) a leading provider of IPTV technology and services to Telecom operators worldwide and incumbent telecom operator Algeria Telecom (www.algerietelecom.dz) today announced the launch of SAFIR, the first IPTV service in Algeria. 

SAFIR is being rolled out on the back of Africa’s largest FTTH (Fibre To The Home) fibre optic network and will offer Algeria Telecom broadband customers a compelling mix of advanced digital TV services and a choice of 60 IP-delivered TV channels.

Created using the innovative NetgemTV software and delivered via Netgem’s Set Top Box, SAFIR was implemented in close cooperation with the integration partner SPEC-COM Algérie.

“SAFIR is a key initiative in the rollout of our FTTH network and evidence of our commitment to offer six million broadband connections by the end of 2013” said Moussa Benhamadi, CEO of Algeria Telecom. “Netgem’s technology and experience in developing innovative audiovisual services has enabled us to efficiently create a customised and compelling interactive Television service and the necessary tools with which to manage it.” he adds.

Commenting on behalf of the Netgem Group, Managing Director, Christophe Aulnette said, “Already proven in the advanced IPTV markets, the launch of SAFIR is a powerful illustration of how Netgem’s technology can also adapt to deliver advanced TV services within the unique dynamics of an emerging market, such as Africa.”

“Algeria Telecom is seizing every opportunity to increase market share through the provision of high-quality services. It is therefore, a great pleasure to be work together to realise that ambition through the launch of SAFIR.” He adds.

Algeria’s government is making considerable investment into its national telecom infrastructure and broadband networks in an effort to accelerate economic development and build an information, communications and knowledge society.

“With the launch of SAFIR we provide an easy and value added experience through which we can encourage more people to connect to the Internet and maximise returns of our information and communication technologies. We have a strong partner in Netgem who’s proven IPTV solutions and flexible development environment adapts well to our local economic, technical and content constraints.” Concludes Moussa Benhamadi.