Rami Osman doesn’t mince words when he talks about the promise of connectivity in Africa. As MediaTek’s Director of Business Development for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, Osman is acutely aware of the challenges facing the continent: fragmented access to broadband, affordability constraints, and the need for technology that bridges rather than widens the digital divide. Yet, for him, these challenges represent opportunity — an opportunity MediaTek is seizing through innovative technology and strategic partnerships.
“A third of the population still uses DSL, while another third has smartphones but needs faster internet,” Osman says, his tone a mix of pragmatism and optimism. “The future is about giving everyone proper broadband access, not just mobility.”
This vision is already playing out in South Africa, where MediaTek’s collaboration with local telecom providers like Rain has positioned the company as a major driver of the country’s 5G revolution. With its chipsets embedded in everything from smartphones to smart TVs and IoT devices, MediaTek powers over half the world’s mobile devices — a statistic that underscores its global significance and growing foothold in Africa.
From Mobile to 5G: Building Connectivity That Matters
South Africa has become a proving ground for 5G technology, and MediaTek is at the centre of it all. The company’s Dimensity chipsets, designed to enable high-speed connectivity even in areas without fibre infrastructure, are helping telecom providers offer reliable and affordable internet to underserved communities. This isn’t just about faster downloads; it’s about creating access to education, telemedicine, and new economic opportunities.
Yet the path to widespread 5G adoption in Africa is complex. Some regions are still grappling with 4G deployment, while others rely on outdated DSL networks. MediaTek’s approach, Osman says, is to deliver scalable solutions tailored to Africa’s diverse needs.
“Connectivity isn’t just about speed; it’s about enabling better schooling, entrepreneurship, and belonging to the digital economy,” he explains, noting the critical role broadband plays in fostering economic growth.
Making Technology Affordable — and Effective
For MediaTek, affordability isn’t a buzzword — it’s a guiding principle. The company’s strategy to integrate advanced AI capabilities into mid-range devices ensures that cutting-edge technology reaches the hands of everyday consumers. This is particularly important in South Africa, where cost often dictates tech adoption.
“Our NPUs (neural processing units) are now available across most of our 5G chipsets,” Osman says, referencing the processors that power AI features in devices. “Generative AI’s curve is much faster than IoT, and soon you’ll see an explosion of AI-powered apps that will enhance user experiences across devices.”
These advances are already transforming how South Africans interact with technology. From AI-driven language processing to image recognition, MediaTek’s edge AI capabilities reduce reliance on cloud computing, making devices more efficient and accessible in areas with limited connectivity.
Partnerships That Propel Progress
What sets MediaTek apart in Africa isn’t just its technology; it’s the ecosystem the company is building. Collaborations with mobile operators, device manufacturers, and government stakeholders form the backbone of its strategy.
The company’s partnership with Rain, which began as a South African initiative, has since expanded to other markets. This partnership showcases how local success can scale globally, a point Osman underscores: “Our belief in the South African tech ecosystem is proving itself. Partnerships like the one with Rain showcase the strength of collaboration in driving connectivity and innovation.”
As Africa’s digital transformation accelerates, MediaTek is positioning itself as more than a semiconductor manufacturer. It is a catalyst for progress, empowering communities and redefining what is possible in a connected world.
The Future MediaTek Sees
Osman’s vision for Africa is as ambitious as it is grounded. Whether it’s powering the continent’s next wave of AI applications or driving the adoption of advanced 5G technologies, MediaTek’s role is undeniable.
“Our culture is about doing more for less,” Osman says. “Every year, we work to create better, more affordable solutions for our customers.”