Motorola, Inc. (NYSE:MOT) announced that it has been selected by Warid Telecom Uganda, part of Warid Telecom International, to design and deploy an 802.16e WiMAX network in Uganda.
With much of Africa facing major challenges with limited fixed line access, Motorola will deliver a high-speed wireless broadband network, allowing Warid Telecom Uganda to quickly and cost-effectively connect the unconnected. Initial deployment, which is progressing rapidly, is due for completion by the end of 2007, enabling residential and enterprise voice and data connectivity services such as Voice over IP (VoIP) and virtual private network (VPN).
“In selecting the country’s first 802.16e WiMAX network for our broadband services we remove the limitations that come with deploying fixed infrastructure and have a more cost-effective solution for reaching more subscribers across all market segments,” said Zul Javaid, CEO and country general manager for Warid Telecom Uganda. “With Motorola’s global strength and WiMAX leadership, and the track record it has established with the Warid Group, we are confident that we can quickly and effectively bring next-generation broadband services to the people of Uganda.”
“Motorola is excited to be working with Warid Telecom Uganda to deliver wireless broadband to the country, using Motorola’s 802.16e WiMAX solutions. For emerging markets such as Uganda, Motorola’s ability to bypass legacy communication architectures and deliver next-generation technology offers competitive advantage to operators such as Warid Telecom Uganda. We believe WiMAX will greatly change the broadband landscape in Africa, not only enhancing access for consumers but also allowing for lower tariffs to bridging the digital divide and provide operators with new revenue opportunities,” said Ali Amer, vice president, Motorola Home & Networks Mobility, Middle East and Africa:
In addition to delivering state of the art equipment and services to Warid Uganda to support its ambitious deployment schedule, Motorola is currently working with Warid International’s subsidiary Wateen Telecom in Pakistan on the deployment and management of a nationwide end-to-end 802.16e WiMAX network.
Motorola’s WiMAX solutions are designed to support fixed, portable, nomadic and mobile applications. The WiMAX access points, customer premises equipment and mobile WiMAX chipsets under development for use in Motorola’s devices are part of the MOTOwi4™ portfolio of solutions that complement and complete wireless broadband networks. . Delivering IP coverage to virtually all spaces, MOTOwi4 also includes fixed, mesh, and indoor solutions for private and public networks. All of the MOTOwi4 solutions complement each other and can be deployed to meet the specific requirements for public and private networks. For more information on Motorola’s wi4 WiMAX and MOTOwi4 solutions, please visit: www.motorola.com/wi4
About Warid Telecom Uganda
Warid Telecom International is owned by the Abu Dhabi Group led by His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. The group is one of the largest in the Middle East and has diversified business interests ranging from oil and gas exploration, hospitality services, telecommunications, banking and financial services, automobile industries and property development.
Warid Telecom has implemented a new and modern corporate identity as a result of the dynamic changes taking place in the telecom industry. With a reflection of a new strategy, Warid’s aim is to be perceived not only as a telecommunication operator of voice services, but also as a universal provider of comprehensive communications services for both residential and business customers. Warid’s corporate identity seeks to reflect the changes in telecom sector in relation to helping customers keep pace with rapidly changing technology in the field of communication, and to harmonize the customers‘ perception of Warid’s brand with the quality and range of our services. Warid’s objective is to provide optimum level of support and care through our highly skilled and motivated team of professionals and through maximum network coverage and clear connectivity that Warid has committed to provide.
Warid Telecom Uganda Limited is fully owned by Warid Telecom International and was licensed to operate in Uganda on the 26th of March 2007. Warid Telecom Uganda’s vision is to become a leading national communications provider with a strong international presence. The blend of industry experience from overseas operations, combined with a strong local focus should create the ultimate in user-friendly, high quality network.
About Motorola
Motorola is known around the world for innovation and leadership in wireless and broadband communications. Inspired by our vision of seamless mobility, the people of Motorola are committed to helping you connect simply and seamlessly to the people, information and entertainment that you want and need. We do this by designing and delivering „must have“ products, „must do“ experiences and powerful networks — along with a full complement of support services. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US $42.8 billion in 2006. For more information about our company, our people and our innovations, please visit http://www.motorola.com.
