RSK-AMRAN

• The Amateur Radio Emergency Network of the Radio Society of Kenya.

As Chair of the Amateur Radio Emergency Network of the Radio Society of Kenya (RSK-AMRAN), I am spearheading the development of a long-range (LoRa) mesh network across Kenya. This project, documented on this website, focuses on using Meshcore technology over Meshtastic to build this critical infrastructure. This website serves as a resource for tracking the network’s construction, uses, and expansion, providing links to Meshcore’s official website, GitHub, Discord, and YouTube channel for community engagement and technical information. I invite you to follow our progress and offer feedback as we establish this vital emergency communication system.

MeshCore is a lightweight, portable C++ library that enables multi-hop packet routing for embedded projects using LoRa and other packet radios. It is designed for developers who want to create resilient, decentralized communication networks that work without the internet.

What Can You Use MeshCore For?

• Off-Grid Communication: Stay connected even in remote areas.
• Emergency Response & Disaster Recovery: Set up instant networks where infrastructure is down.
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, camping, and adventure racing communication.
• Tactical & Security Applications: Military, law enforcement, and private security use cases.
• IoT & Sensor Networks: Collect data from remote sensors and relay it back to a central location.

Our primary use here is #2 above – Emergency Response & Disaster Recovery. A primary requirement is to be able to work even where there is no internet and when the internet and mains grid goes down.

Links

• The Official MeshCore Website: This is the primary hub for the project. You’ll find firmware, a web flasher to get started with our devices, and links to mobile apps. I’ve found this the best place to find the most current and authoritative information. http://meshcorelinks.michaelholroyd.uk
• The MeshCore GitHub Repository: The GitHub page is a crucial resource for developers and advanced users. It contains the project’s source code, technical documentation, and the project’s wiki. If you’re looking to contribute, report bugs, or dig into the technical details, this is the place to go.https://github.com/meshcore-dev/MeshCore
• Community Discord Server: For real-time support, discussions, and troubleshooting, joining the official Discord server is highly recommended. It’s where developers and users interact, share tips, and discuss the project’s direction. It’s often the fastest way to get help with a specific issue.https://meshcorelinks.michaelholroyd.uk/
• MeshCore’s YouTube Channel: The project also has a presence on YouTube, which is useful for visual learners. You can find video guides, tutorials, and updates on new features. Andy Kirby’s channel is the one to subscribe to: https://www.youtube.com/@andykirby
• Ripple Radios https://buymeacoffee.com/ripplebiz

It’s also worth noting that MeshCore is a competitor to another popular mesh networking project called Meshtastic. When searching online, you might encounter discussions and comparisons between the two on platforms like Reddit and forums. These can be helpful for understanding the unique features and trade-offs of each system.

Here is an image of my initial purchase for the network rollout. See if you can identify each item and figure out why I purchased it.