LIME on Tuesday announced that a member of the CWC Group has acquired the shares of the parent company of DEKAL Wireless Jamaica Limited. DEKAL Wireless, in the interest of group efficiency, will be operated by LIME Jamaica, pending regulatory approval.

DEKAL, based in Port Antonio, Portland, is Jamaica's first island-wide WiFi broadband wireless internet service provider, utilising the best, state-of-the-art WiFi compatible technology.

DEKAL's technology, combined with LIME's existing network, will deepen rural internet penetration to reach more people in more places across Jamaica.

global standards

LIME CEO, Garfield Sinclair, expressed: "This is a unique opportunity for LIME to connect more Jamaicans and play our part in bringing Jamaica's internet penetration level to global standards. This initiative ensures that no one is left behind as we move towards becoming a more connected society."

CEO of DEKAL, David Lee, said: "We are partnering with a strong and innovative telecommunications company. The vision of both companies will be combined to expand internet access throughout rural Jamaica. LIME's significant support for the growth and development of information and communications technology in Jamaica and consistent delivery of affordable voice and data services to the public, positions it as the undisputed value provider in Jamaican telecommunications."

This collaboration will:

Increase internet availability to previously under-served communities.

Improve prepaid internet accessibility via laptops, tablets or smartphones to more consumers islandwide.

Deliver affordability through the consistent value LIME is known for in mobile and other services.

The technology will support nation-building initiatives such as the Government's Tablets in Schools programme particularly in rural communities, by ensuring that students can continue to enjoy the convenience of an affordable internet connection, while they use their devices away from the schools' network. Through the LIME Foundation, over 400 schools in mainly rural communities receive free internet access.