By Staff Writer
South Sudan has on Monday launched its first ever indigenous mobile telecommunication network, bringing the number of mobile operators in South Sudan to three.
The Digitel Network is the third mobile operator aims at fast-tracking connectivity of areas previously not served by other mobile phone companies.
Speaking during the official launching of the network, President Salva Kiir who was the guest of honor assured the citizens of government’s commitment to bringing more mobile services to the people in remote localities.
“To demonstrate seriousness in the desire to connect rural communities to mobile network, the government will explore options including tax exemptions that will benefit importation of network equipment and other telecommunications tools,” the President said.
This equipment will help increase digital literacy programs to the next generation for information and communication technology as well as ICT driven economy, the Head of State added.
“The tax exemption I am proposing will be done in collaboration with national revenue authority to ensure modalities for tax exemption are consistent with its mandate,” Kiir said.
The President called on the new telecom Company to not only concentrate in Juba City but instead advance its mobile services across the country.
He noted that there was a need for South Sudan to catch up with the rest of the world in the areas of digital divide.
Athiei De Chan Awuol, the Vice President for Digitel Mobile Operator said the company was committed to delivering digital services across the country.
“For us to launch our telecom services and products at 10 years of our anniversary shows that South Sudanese can contribute brighter future for themselves.
“Since 2011, the government has been working hard to attract foreign investors, but South Sudanese business persons have responded to this call by identifying the area of our economy that can put other sectors along,” Awuol said.
According to the Company’s official, the new company is determined to strengthening digital divide.
Michael Makuei Lueth, the Minister for Information, communication, telecommunication and Postal Services, said the government was proud of the new operator since it is purely an indigenous company.
“It is really an honor that sons and daughters of this country decided to come together to serve their people because without these services, there will be no progress,” the Information Minister said.
“My advice to the company is that, try to roll out regularly so that you can reach out to the people of South Sudan in their various areas you can move to,”
He also advised the new operator to meaningfully serve people so that it meets its intention.
