U.S.-based Lockheed Martin Global Telecommunications (LMGT) and Orbicom, a South African-based subsidiary of Johnnic, at the end of October signed a memorandum of understanding to focus on satellite telecommunications and information services targeted at selected African markets and provide cost-effective solutions for corporations and Internet service providers. The agreement brings together LMGT, one of the world’s largest technology and communications service providers and Orbicom, a sister company of MTN, which already provides satellite communications services to the African continent. The project aims at providing an “Internet connection in the sky.”
Malawai
Malawian authorities are considering a third mobile-phone network. The Panafrican News Agency reported the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is hoping a third player will promote competition and efficiency. “The priority,” said MACRA general-director Evans Namanja, “should be to improve cellular coverage throughout Malawi.” National cell-phone coverage is currently provided by Celtel and Telekom, but most rural areas still lack service. Namanja indicated the introduction of a third player would encourage all carriers to extend their capacity into new regions. MACRA has criticized both Celtel and Telekom over their mobile-phone charges and instructed them in May to reduce rates and stop charging users for interconnectivity fees. Celtel went to court and obtained a court order against MACRA’s directive, arguing the agency cannot determine fees charged to consumers. Namanja, however, countered that MACRA is mandated to regulate, among other things, subscription costs.
Morocco
Medi Telecom concluded the largest telecom project financing ever in Morocco at US$857 million, said Portugal Telecom, which owns 30.5 percent of the Moroccan wireless operator. The funds will be used to refinance existing debts under two bridge facilities to further build out the operator’s network, which currently covers 65 percent of the population. Medi Telecom holds the country’s second GSM license and has 410,000 subscribers.
