South Sudan on Monday launched its first-ever locally owned mobile telecom operator, Digitel Network.
President Salva Kiir said the telco will fast-track connectivity to areas previously not served by foreign-owned telecom companies operating in the country.
“To our people who live in remote areas who need mobile service, the government is determined to bring mobile services to your locations,” Kiir said.
Digitel's launch marks the first steps in it's long journey to Bridge the Digital Divide through provision of innovative ICT solutions to the people of South Sudan. pic.twitter.com/M3b8PYVEM4
— Digitel South Sudan (@DigitelSS) July 12, 2021
In addition, he noted that his government will explore options, including tax exemptions, that will benefit the importation of network equipment and telecommunication tools.
Athiei De Chan Awuol, Executive Vice President for Digitel, said that the company is committed to delivering digital services across the country.
He noted that the launch of Digitel demonstrates the commitment of South Sudanese to developing their country, adding that since 2011, the government has been working hard to attract foreign investors.
Digitel joins South Africa’s MTN and Kuwait’s Zain in the South Sudanese telecom market.
Additional by Xinhua
