South Sudan-owned mobile operator begins operations

By Benjamin Takpiny

JUBA, South Sudan (AA) - South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir inaugurated the first South Sudanese-owned mobile telecom company Monday, bringing the number of mobile operators in the country to three

The Digitel Network aims to fast-track the connectivity of areas previously not served by mobile phone companies.

In his remarks during the launch, Kiir assured citizens of the government's commitment to bring mobile services to people in remote areas.

“To demonstrate seriousness in the desire to connect rural communities to the mobile network, the government will explore options including tax exemption that will benefit the importation of network equipment and other telecommunications tools. This equipment will help increase digital literacy programs to the next generation for information and communication technology, an ICT-driven economy. The tax exemption I am proposing will be done in collaboration with the national revenue authority to ensure the modalities for tax exemption are consistent with its mandate.

“I am happy to be with you today at the launch of the Digitel Network, the first fully owned South Sudan mobile operator. This launch is very important because having the first South Sudanese-owned mobile operator in our country will fast-track the connectivity of areas previously not serve by mobile phone companies,” he said.

“To our people who live in remote areas, who need mobile service, the government is determined to bring mobile services to your locations. This development came as a result of direct government intervention with support from the private sector, which complements government efforts in the telecommunication sector.”

Kiir called on the Digitel Network to not only concentrate in Juba but to spread mobile services within the country, noting that South Sudan needs to catch up with the rest of the world in the field of digital technology.

“To prepare for our long-term digital infrastructure development, I am directing the Ministry of Road and Bridges to coordinate with the National Communication Authority to include provisions for telecommunication infrastructure in all road design and construction. This will support our role of extending Digitel’s services to many areas across the country,” he said.

Athiei De Chan Awuol, executive vice president of Digitel, said the company is committed to deliver digital services across the country.

“For us to launch our telecom services and products 10 years after Independence Day shows that South Sudanese can contribute to a brighter future for ourselves, our children and the next generation. Since 2011, the government has been working hard to attract foreign investors. South Sudanese businesspeople have responded to this call by identifying the area of our economy that can pull other sectors along,” said Awuol.