New GSM Network Launched in Southern Sudan

Vivacell has announced that it launched a commercial GSM 900/1800 network in Southern Sudan on the 22nd of Dec 2008. Vivacell is one of four GSM operators licensed to operate in Southern Sudan but is the first to be headquartered in Southern Sudan.

At launch, four states are covered including the capital city Juba.

During the first half of 2009, Vivacell aims to extend its coverage footprint to all of the 10 States.

Last April, Zain launched a GSM network in Southern Sudan, having deployed 50 base stations in the main urban areas. The company plans to spend US$150 million over the next few years on its network, which is predominantly covering the north of the country.

Figures from the Mobile World report that Sudan ended last September with an estimated 9.5 million mobile subscribers - representing a population penetration level of just under 22%.

Southern Sudan is also currently still using the international dialing code for Uganda to route most calls - although the Sudan government is applying pressure for the transitional government in Southern Sudan to prevent this. Vivacell says that it will be using the Sudan international dialing code - which is 249.

Southern Sudan is an autonomous region intermediate between the states and the national government. Southern Sudan is scheduled to have a referendum on independence in 2011.

Posted to the site on 13th January 2009