MTN, Africa's largest cellular operator and SA's second biggest, has prequalified to compete for a telecommunications licence in the Southeast Asia country of Myanmar.
The Myanmar Telecommunications Ministry yesterday announced MTN is one of 12 operators that have been prequalified to submit bids for two nation-wide telecommunications licences in the country.
MTN has partnered in Myanmar with Amara Communications, a subsidiary of IGE, a company with interests in various sectors, including telecommunications tower construction, SIM card distribution, electricity generation, and oil and gas exploration.
The operator has also partnered with M1 Telecom, which is part of M1 Group, an international conglomerate with interests in telecommunications, real estate, fashion and travel.
MTN Group president and CEO Sifiso Dabengwa says the operator is "very excited" about the Myanmar opportunity. "We have an unparalleled track record in bringing world-class telecommunications services to the 22 countries in which we are currently active.
Furthermore, as a South African company successful on the world stage, and operational since 1994, we have direct experience of the challenges of a post-sanctions business environment and the related developmental challenges. We look forward to making a significant contribution in Myanmar."
Dabengwa says he is confident that, should MTN be awarded the licence, the company will be able to quickly deploy a "world-class network infrastructure" and services.
He cites an understanding of emerging markets as an attribute that stands MTN in good stead.
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