University of the Western Cape
Overview of innovation

Connecting Communities

Zenzeleni is a solar-powered, community-owned Wifi telecommunications network solution providing affordable communications to remote rural areas. Through the use of wireless mesh networking, users are able to make free internal voice-over IP calls, while the cost of breakout mobile calls and data is greatly reduced. The network consists of scattered nodes powered through easy-to-install, modular solar systems. Communities can charge mobile devices and provide lighting from these nodes.

Type of Intellectual Property protection
Trademark
Innovation Opportunity Type
Investment
Partnership
Pilot
Industry
​Information and communication
Networks
Mobile
IoT
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 8 – Ready for market
Website link
Video