Bakhresa's Azam Mobile, Vodacom secure new broadband
What you need to know:
The regulator said Vodacom and Azam were given conditions after being awarded the new spectrum to ensure their mobile broadband services reach 60 per cent of the population by 2021, rising to 90 per cent by 2024.
Dar es Salaam. Vodacom Tanzania Plc and Azam Telecom (T) Limited have emerged winners and acquisitionists of the 700 MHz broadband during a spectrum auction conducted by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
According to a statement by TCRA, Vodacom Tanzania Plc acquired 2 x 10 MHz for a total price of $10.005 million (Sh22.5 billion) while Azam Telecom (T) Ltd acquired 2 x 10 MHz for a total price of $10 million (Sh22.5 billion).
The auction was carried out on June 8, 2018, with a designation to achieve the National Information Communications and Technology Policy (National ICT Policy), 2016 objectives of promoting an efficient use of spectrum to generate the greatest socio-economic benefits.
The regulator said Vodacom and Azam were given conditions after being awarded the new spectrum to ensure their mobile broadband services reach 60 per cent of the population by 2021, rising to 90 per cent by 2024.
Vodacom Tanzania Plc chairman Ali Mufuruki said in a statement that the success in the auction is a progressive step for both the Country and economy.
“It is transformative from a broadband access perspective and the planned utilization of the assigned spectrum will enable Vodacom to measurably contribute to the Country’s mobile broadband infrastructure that is a critical element of economic development as noted in the National Information Communications and Technology Policy, 2016,” said Mr Mufuruki.
Vodacom Tanzania also plans to use the 700 MHz spectrum to roll out fourth generation (4G) services to more towns and cities in the country.
“This enables us to put into action our plans to accelerate increased coverage and provision of high-speed mobile broadband, supporting a superior 4G data user experience across the Country”, says Diego Gutierrez, Vodacom Group chief operating officer.
