Safaricom, a Kenya-based mobile phone manufacturer, has acquired a 51 per cent stake in US-based data services provider One Communications, for $2.7 million.

Safaricom, a Kenya-based mobile phone manufacturer, has acquired a 51 per cent stake in US-based data services provider One Communications, for $2.7 million. The acquisition will enable One Communications to offer Wi-Max services through video, voice and data over IP. The deal will allow Safaricom to offer an array of services without any extra licences if the Communications Commission of Kenya permits the acquisition under unified licensing norms. One Communications hasalready set up five Wi-Max base stations, but plans to expand further throughout the country.