UbuntuNet Alliance has further solidified its procurement capabilities through ongoing collaboration with the European Research and Education Network, GÉANT. This partnership, fostered under the AfricaConnect project, has played a vital role in advancing research and education across Africa by expanding the UbuntuNet Alliance internet backbone, facilitating knowledge exchange, building capacity, and promoting the development of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs).
As the AfricaConnect3 project nears its conclusion in late 2024, the next phase of the project seems promising, and procurement has emerged as a key area of focus. From 10-12 September 2024, staff from GÉANT and UbuntuNet Alliance convened in Amsterdam for a three-day workshop centered on Finance and Procurement. The goal was to build on the lessons learned from past projects and further streamline procurement processes to support the extension and maintenance of the UbuntuNet Alliance backbone in possible future phases of the AfricaConnect project.
Representing UbuntuNet Alliance at the workshop were the Chief Executive Officer, Finance and Administration Manager, Project Manager, and Procurement Officer, forming the core procurement team. The workshop addressed specific challenges and opportunities related to the procurement of internet connectivity infrastructure, including securing the necessary equipment, services, and partnerships to extend the UbuntuNet Alliance internet backbone. This infrastructure is crucial to delivering fast, reliable, and cost-effective connectivity to research and education institutions across Africa. Procurement plays a pivotal role in managing the acquisition of such high-performance networking hardware, software, fibre connections, and data center services that support this extensive network. The workshop also delved into financial reporting and accountability as required by EU funded projects. A focus was placed on developing a culture of transparency and understanding the importance of adhering to project financial rules. This ensures continued efficient management of funds as well as reduced risk of misallocation or misuse while also building donor trust.
Enhanced procurement and finance strategy is essential for the next phase of the UbuntuNet Alliance internet backbone, which will focus on further expansion and maintenance. These necessary advancements to the infrastructure support the growing needs of African research and education communities, providing critical connectivity that fosters collaboration across borders. As the partnership between UbuntuNet Alliance and GEANT deepens, NRENs across Africa are expected to benefit from improved procurement processes that will contribute to the sustained growth of research and education networks.
By streamlining procurement and establishing stronger framework agreements, UbuntuNet Alliance aims to ensure that it can continue to deliver cutting-edge connectivity solutions that meet the evolving needs of its member NRENs and research communities.