E-Networks, broadcasters of the News Room, has offered its DreamTV service free to 25 far-flung Amerindian communities.
Supported by the company’s fibre-optic network, the DreamTV service offers access to over 100 high-definition TV channels, including three of E-Networks’ signature channels, including E1, which provides news, current affairs and critical public information.
Vishok Persaud, Managing Director of E-Networks said the company recognises the need for information in indigenous communities and was pleased to offer the service free of cost to 25 communities which will be determined by the National Toshaos Council (NTC).
Other communities and private individuals in those communities can buy the service starting for less than $4,000 or choose other packages with more channels.
Persaud explained to close to 200 Amerindian Chiefs attending the annual NTC conference that E-Networks is a technology company with focus on internet service provision and cable TV service.
The company is this year celebrating its 15th anniversary and is looking to launch new products and initiatives.
He said the DreamTV satellite service enables the company to provide TV services in high definition quality anywhere in Guyana.
He noted that the company especially took into consideration that the service needed to be energy efficient so that it could be used with solar power and other low energy alternatives for areas without electricity connectivity to the national grid.
DreamTV offers access to come of the largest content providers in the world – such as ESPN, HBO and Disney – and local channels, including State TV; therefore, the content provided allows for education and entertainment.
He said the DreamTV service is significant to indigenous communities because it allows them to connect to the world and the channels offered provide a range of views on various topics that could prove beneficial.
He noted that the service serves to complement the efforts of the Public Telecommunications Ministry to provide internet to hinterland communities.
“One of the fallbacks of rural connectivity is the capacity to pass video, and we think our system complements that project (ICT connectivity in hinterland areas) nicely because you can use it for education, you can use it for sports, you can use it for current affairs,” Persaud stated.
He pointed to the media arm of the company, which could allow communities to be able to access news in a timely manner.
Further, he said the media arm of the company can also partner with communities to ensure their views are heard and that their communities benefit from a display of local opportunities.
“I think this is a next way we can use the resources that we have to partner with your communities to promote economic activities and opportunities available, whether its tourism, craft or agro,” he stated.
