South Africa`s leading mobile communication provider Vodacom has concluded a framework contract with Siemens as a sole supplier for the construction of Vodacom`s UMTS network in SA.
By 2007, Siemens will upgrade Vodacom`s existing GSM and GPRS network throughout the entire country with third-generation radio and core equipment. For Siemens, this is the first 3G/W-CDMA contract on the African continent and the 30th UMTS installation worldwide.
Vodacom will be the first mobile phone operator in Africa to operate a UMTS network commercially. As SA`s leading mobile communication operator with more than nine million customers, Vodacom is looking to offer its first 3G services, such as the downloading of video clips or live transmissions of soccer games to mobile phones, already in the first half of the year 2005.
"We decided to commission Siemens to install our 3G network, as being the world`s leading supplier of UMTS technology, it has a wealth of experience in implementing the third generation of mobile communication, as well as a strong local presence in Africa," said Vodacom`s Chief Operating Officer, Pieter Uys.
With this 31st UMTS contract Siemens can strengthen its position as the leading supplier in the 3G sector. Half of all commercial UMTS networks are from Siemens and its technology partner NEC, making it the premier supplier worldwide.
"We are pleased to be able to support Vodacom on their path to the third generation of mobile communication and to strengthen SA`s position as a technological leader in mobile communications," said Pete Da Silva, CEO of Siemens Telecommunications (Pty) LTD.
In 2003 alone, the number of mobile subscribers in SA rose by 26%. And the current mobile communication market penetration of 37% holds the promise of further growth potential for mobile operators.
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