Telecel network to cover 85 percent of the country

ORASCOM Telecom Holdings has said its local unit, Telecel Zimbabwe, will expand its network  to cover at least 85 percent of the country.

Orascom has invested US$70 million in the company, which is expected to cover expansion, currently at 58 percent, and upgrading of both voice and data services to ensure Telecel's clients are able to access a wider range of mobile communications services in line with worldwide developments.

"Expansion of Telecel is ongoing. About 85 percent is considered a high coverage percentage," said Orascom.

"Although 100 percent might seem desirable, it is not attainable, given the country's topography and population distribution."

Telecel Zimbabwe is the country's second largest mobile company by subscribers, with 1,4 million subscribers trailing Econet Wireless which boasts 6,4 million active subscribers.

NetOne has 1,3 million subscribers.

Last year, Telecel established 127 base stations around the country, covering both 2G and 3G services.

The mobile telecommunications company also opened new regional offices in Victoria Falls, Masvingo and Chinhoyi.

Orascom Telecom said it has confidence in the future of mobile telecommunications in Zimbabwe.

"To this end there will be a major thrust in terms of training of both technical and managerial staff, knowing as we do that well-qualified human resources represent the company's best asset," Orascom said.

Telecel Zimbabwe is jointly owned by Orascom Telecom Holdings and Empowerment Corporation.

Originating from Egypt, Orascom Telecom Holdings is a major international telecommunications company with interests in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and North America.

Orascom recently merged with VimpleCom, a leading operator in Russia, CIS, Ukraine and South-East Asia.

Telecel Zimbabwe became part of VimpleCom after the giant Russian telecommunications group acquired a 51 percent shareholding in Orascom of Egypt, which holds a 60 percent shareholding in the local unit.

Telecel Zimbabwe stands to benefit immensely from VimpelCom's deep pockets after the Russian mobile phone operator last year raised US$2,2 billion on European financial markets giving it a strong capital pool.

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