Algeria to commence process to license 3G imminently

Algeria plans to award 3G licences, once it has settled an agreement over the ownership of the country’s largest mobile network, Djezzy with its current owner, VimpelCom/Orascom Telecom.

Algeria’s minister of communications, Moussa Benhamadi told the state radio service that the government expects to secure a deal to buy a 51 per cent stake in Djezzy within the next few weeks.

Once the sale is completed, the ministry will work on allocating 3G licences to the country’s three mobile networks.

Benhamadi also confirmed that there are no plans to award a fourth mobile operator licence, saying that the three networks are adequate. The appetite for a fourth licenced is muted in any respect.