News
Swedish kit maker bags deal amid fresh rumours of Vodafone’s impending entry to the market.
Airtel Zambia this week selected Ericsson to overhaul its 2G and 3G networks.
The contract covers hardware, software and a range of services including project management, systems integration and customer support, said Ericsson, in a statement on Monday.
The upgrade will enable energy-efficient, cost-effective operations while improving network coverage and capacity, the company said.
"We are committed to offering our customers the best user experience. Partnering with Ericsson, who are performance and technology leaders, to upgrade our network ensures that we continue to deliver a wide selection of best in class customised services with excellent quality to our customers," said Peter Correia, managing director of Airtel Zambia.
Meanwhile, according to recent press reports, Airtel Zambia is set to face off against a new competitor in Vodafone.
Sources cited by ITWeb Africa last week claimed that Vodafone has been awarded a mobile licence, which would see it become Zambia’s fourth operator. The U.K.-based company is also said to be recruiting graduates from the University of Zambia (UNZA).
Zambia is currently served by three players: MTN, Airtel, and Zamtel.
While nothing has been confirmed, introducing a new entrant would be in line with the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority’s (ZICTA’s) aim to drive better quality of service and lower prices.
ZICTA also recently completed a consultation regarding the introduction of MVNOs. According to the watchdog, the majority of respondents were in favour of virtual players, and that legislation should be introduced to compel mobile operators to provide wholesale access to their networks.
