Sierratel Launches CDMA Network

Sierra Leone based telco, Sierratel has launched its CDMA network after running voice call tests since last August. The Chinese government provided a low-interest rate loan to Sierratel so that it could place a US$17 million order with Huawei for the CDMA network kit. The network covers the western side of the country and major towns in the provinces.

President Ernest Bai Koroma said at the launch, "I am pleased to note that the CDMA technology will provide quality services to the people of Sierra Leone. It is essential to have a good national telecommunications system because we want to embark on E-government policy by connecting government ministries and departments to ease their activities."

The country currently has five mobile networks - but penetration level languishes at just 22.7%. Figures from the Mobile World show that the country ended last year with just under 1.44 million subscribers.

Posted to the site on 3rd May 2009