GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Digicel Group, the fastest-growing mobile telecommunications provider in the Pan Caribbean region, today announced that it will receive a license from the Government of Guyana to operate a GSM network.
The license will enable Digicel to offer Guyana cutting-edge technology and innovative, mobile telecommunications services while expanding the company’s footprint into South America. The issuance of the license will be subject to the public consultation process required under the Guyana Telecommunications Act 1990.
Guyana has a population of nearly 800,000 people with mobile penetration at approximately 22 percent. Digicel expects to make a significant impact on the quality and standard of mobile telecommunications in this country by investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and offering services and handsets that will deliver real value to its customers.
President Bharrat Jageo of Guyana, (l.) receives a gift from CEO of Digicel Group, Colm Delves
“The telecommunications industry has become increasingly important to Guyana now and for the future,” said President of Guyana, Mr Bharrat Jagdeo. “Digicel not only has an outstanding track record, but the company is a recognized telecommunications leader in the Caribbean. We are excited about Digicel’s entry into Guyana and certainly looking forward to reaping the benefits of its customer-centric focus and innovative mobile telecommunications.”
Building on its continued mission to establish a seamless pan-Caribbean network and help bridge the technology divide from one nation to another, the new license will extend Digicel’s reach to 21 markets across the region and comes in the wake of its launch in neighbouring French Guiana in June 2006.
“Digicel is delighted to bring to Guyana the true benefits of accessible mobile technology and we are grateful to President Bharrat Jagdeo and the Ministry responsible for Telecommunications for their support,” said Colm Delves, Digicel Group CEO. “We look forward to continuing our fruitful relationship with the Guyana government. This license will enable Digicel to contribute to Guyana’s economic growth through job creation, sponsorships, and community-building initiatives.”
Digicel Guyana’s operation will be headed by Tim Bahrani, a senior executive who has more than eleven years experience in mobile telecommunications management. Prior to joining Digicel, he previously held senior management positions at Celtel, Africa’s leading mobile operator and Millicom International in Asia.
With US$1.2 billion invested in the Caribbean over the past five years, Digicel has become one of the most admired and leading brands in the region as well as a significant employer of 2,000 staff members.
