LILONGWE, Malawi,** June 22, 2012/ *–* Manoj Kohli, CEO (International) &
Joint MD, Bharti Airtel (http://www.airtel.com), yesterday paid a courtesy
call on Her Excellency the President of the Republic of Malawi, Mrs. Joyce
Banda, to update on the telecommunication company’s investments in Malawi.
** **
During the visit, Mr. Kohli outlined Airtel’s commitment to Malawi through
a number of innovations, investments and continued human resource
development. Mr. Kohli who heads the African operations at Bharti Airtel
also appreciated the progressive Government reforms in the telecom sector,
citing the proposed converged licensing regime that is poised to enhance
telecommunications connectivity within the region. ****
Mr. Manoj Kohli, said, “Our objective is to provide our customers with
innovative mobile services that will help fuel the economic and social
development of Malawi. Our investment of USD 25 million in the development
of the 3G network and introduction of Airtel Money are a clear
demonstration of our commitment to deepen our network and bridge the
digital divide.”
** **
Airtel is committed to ensure Airtel Money services are within arm’s reach
of the Malawian people. The platform allows consumers to send and receive
money, directly pay their critical utility bills, provide access to their
bank accounts and even top up their phones with air time. The Airtel Money
service will benefit the rural communities of Malawi as has been proven in
neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. ****
** **
The planned upgrade of Airtel’s High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) 3G network
in Malawi will usher in a new era of unique life style enabling products.
This is the latest and fastest wireless broadband technology, also being
rolled out in Europe and the USA. It will contribute significantly towards
meeting the growing demand for high speed internet and wireless
entertainment for large Corporates, Small & Medium Businesses and the Youth.
****
** **
Mr. Kohli further added: “Our commitments are a clear indication that
Government reforms and measures in the telecommunications sector will add
impetus to the economy. Airtel Malawi is also backed by a professional team
to support the drive. Airtel’s commitment to be one of the leading global
telecommunications companies is underpinned by the development of local
talent at all levels. To this end, Airtel’s leadership program has seen 4
talented Malawians take up senior positions overseas to develop their
professional skills within the organization.”****
** **
Another notable highlight is the significant investment in one of Airtel’s
largest green energy initiatives in Sub-Sahara Africa. Mr. Kohli
highlighted his company’s USD10 million Green energy investments in Malawi
by the end of the current financial year. The move to build a Green
network will address short term issues; cutting back the reliance on fuel,
ensuring uninterrupted network upgrades and the medium to long term issues;
such as managing operational costs and conservation of the Environment. ****
** **
In his remarks, Airtel Malawi Managing Director Mr. Saulos Chilima
showcased the acquisition of permanent office facilities in Blantyre and
Limbe as an indication of its long term commitment in Malawi. He also
disclosed that Airtel Malawi has successfully negotiated for new office
space in Lilongwe. ****
** **
*Distributed by the African Press Organization on behalf of Bharti Airtel
Limited.*
* *