Under the agreement Huawei, through its corporate sustainability development programme, will continue to deliver equipment and expertise to help the Vodafone Foundation provide critical network infrastructure in the aftermath of disasters. Huawei, working with the Vodafone Foundation, has developed the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network to help people and relief agencies reinstate emergency communications. The Vodafone Foundation Instant Network is fully portable, weighs under 100kg and can be packed into four suitcases and transported on commercial flights. It can be assembled and configured to provide telephone calls within 40 minutes.
Andrew Dunnett, Vodafone Group Director Sustainability and Vodafone Foundation, said: “Huawei has been an invaluable partner in our efforts to develop emergency communications networks. In little over two years, we have deployed the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network in multiple locations around the globe, helping to save lives and rebuild communities. Communications is essential for the delivery of effective disaster relief, as well playing a crucial role in reconnecting families and friends at times of crisis.”
James Chen, President of Vodafone Business Unit of Huawei Technologies, said: “Communications can provide a lifeline in disaster situations. It can not only help coordinate relief efforts, but can also bring reassurance and peace of mind to victims of the disaster. Huawei is committed to more prolonged relief operations, working alongside local carriers to restore communication networks to disaster-stricken communities. This work with the Vodafone Foundation underlines Huawei’s commitment to contributing to society and sustainable development globally.”
The Vodafone Foundation deployed the Vodafone Foundation Instant Network in the aftermath of Typhoon Bopha in the Philippines in December 2012, with Huawei providing technical support from Manila. The deployment was credited by relief workers for helping save lives. Humanitarian missions have also been carried out in remote Kenyan villages.