Whether a deal does, in fact, come off between an India-based telecoms provider and South Africa’s MTN is not the point. What the discussions between Bharti Airtel and subsequently Reliance Communications with MTN signify is that the scope for cross-regional investment in the communications space is expanding. Just three short years ago, the acquisition of Celtel International in Africa by MTC Group (Zain Group) was viewed as a pioneering development, but since then the flow of cash across continents has evolved quickly.
Welcome to the best thing to happen to business journalism in the telecoms sector for a while
June 1st, 2008 — Issue 1 June 2008
It is a pleasure to welcome you to the inaugural issue of Comm., the publication that is on course to position itself as the mouthpiece of the telecoms sector across emerging markets.
Bharti Airtel confirms MTN interest
June 1st, 2008 — Issue 1 June 2008
South Africa’s Vodacom may be the market leader domestically, but it is
MTN attracting all the attention.
India’s largest integrated telecoms service provider Bharti Airtel and South African mobile juggernaut MTN Group have confirmed they are in exploratory talks over a potential takeover of the latter, with Bharti Airtel considering acquiring a majority stake in MTN.
Jordan and Pakistan join wi-tribe
June 1st, 2008 — Issue 1 June 2008
Jordan and Pakistan are set to soon have access to wi-tribe, a portable wireless modem that uses WiMAX technology to deliver broadband Internet access without a fixed telephone line.
Kenyan rate cut expected
June 1st, 2008 — Issue 1 June 2008
Telephone calling costs in Kenya are expected to fall drastically
by early next year following the government’s agreement to license two new mobile operators Econet Wireless and Telkom Kenya, which is majority owned by France Telecom. Kenya’s permanent secretary
