|
Econet Awards Motorola $57 Million Contract to Install GSM Infrastructure In Nigeria
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill - August 30, 2001 - Motorola's Global Telecom Solutions Sector (GTSS) has been awarded a $57 million contract from Econet Wireless Nigeria Ltd. to provide a Global System for Mobile (GSM) communications network in the populous northern region of Nigeria.
The first phase of the network installation is under way and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2001. When completed, the system will have a capacity of 200,000 subscribers. Phase two of the contract, which is scheduled for early 2002, will expand the system for an additional 160,000 subscriber capacity.
Earlier this year, Econet Wireless Nigeria successfully bid on a GSM license to provide nationwide GSM service to Nigeria. The contract with Motorola provides for wireless networks in the federal capital of Abuja, as well as in the main cities of the north.
"The contract with Motorola will provide Econet with the network capacity to serve our customers' needs in a nation that is poised for the introduction of GSM service," said Zachary Wazara, chief executive officer for Econet Wireless Nigeria Ltd.
"Motorola's commitment to Econet goes beyond installing infrastructure equipment," said Jeff Cherif, general manager for the Middle East and Africa regions for GTSS.
"We will provide services and work with Econet on cost- effective system solutions that will meet the needs of their new GSM customers for both today and the future. It is our intent to make work easier and life simpler for mobile users on Motorola networks," said Cherif.
Motorola is a leading supplier of cellular infrastructure equipment to the Middle East and Africa regions with complete network solutions for GSM, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) networks.
Motorola currently supplies infrastructure equipment for 33 customers in 29 countries in the Middle East and Africa regions.
Econet Nigeria Ltd. is a partnership of Econet Wireless International of Zimbabwe and local Nigeria partners. Econet Wireless International is a leading GSM operator in Africa.
Motorola, Inc.is a global leader in providing integrated communications solutions and embedded electronic solutions. Sales in 2000 were $37.6 billion.
 |
The Corporate Council on Africa
1100 17th Street, N.W., Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: (202) 835-1115
Fax: (202) 835-1117
E-mail: |
|