Vodafone and Afrimax Group have strengthened ties in sub-Saharan Africa by announcing a new ‘partner market’ agreement for Zambia, under which the two will offer customers 4G data services using the Vodafone Zambia brand.

The move is the latest attempt by Afrimax to build what it claims is “the largest portfolio of 4G wireless broadband networks across sub-Saharan Africa.”

The launch builds on the framework agreement between Vodafone and Afrimax, announced in November 2014, to explore opportunities in the region.

Vodafone and Afrimax have already partnered to launch 4G services in Uganda.

Back in September last year, Afrimax secured $120 million of funding from a group of global investors, as it looked to expand the rollout of its LTE networks across sub-Saharan Africa.

The emerging markets player owns TD-LTE spectrum covering 12 countries across the continent.

The roll out of Vodafone Zambia for consumers and businesses will include the opening of Vodafone branded retail stores and kiosks in “key locations”, bolstered by a network of distributors and resellers and offering 4G handsets and devices.

Vodafone Zambia will offer businesses connectivity products at retail and through direct sales channels, including 4G and Wi-Fi mobile data services, fixed internet and software.

Lars Stork will serve as CEO of Vodafone Zambia, which will be headquartered in Lusaka.

Vodafone typically strikes partner market agreements in countries where it does not own or operate a mobile network. Agreements vary from Vodafone branding to product branding, roaming and service re-sale. Its Partner Markets division was set up in 2002 and has expanded to 37 companies in 58 countries. It has physical mobile operations in 26 countries.