Telecom Lead Middle East: Kuwait’s Wataniya Telecom has signed a deal with Ericsson to handle upgrade 2G and 3G radio access network.
Wataniya Telecom is trying to address the increased demand for mobile data in Kuwait. Its mobile users will benefit from higher connectivity speeds and enriched multimedia services.
Ericsson in a statement said the network transformation will enhance delivery of advanced voice, data and multimedia services to its mobile users.
Wataniya is looking for preparing the network for mobile-data growth in future.
Recently, Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud Al Thani, chairman of Wataniya Telecom, said: “In 2012, we have seen continued efforts of network modernization across our markets with LTE planned for Kuwait and 3G and fixed services roll-out in Tunisia.”
The mobile operator’s revenues for the year 2012 amounted to $2.64 billion against $2.58 billion, up 2.2 percent. Wataniya Telecom’s net profit decreased to $268.5 million in 2012 from $1.29 billion.
As part of the agreement, Wataniya Telecom will add WCDMA/HSPA capability on 900MHz and LTE capability on the 1800MHz band.
Under this contract, Ericsson will also provide optimization services, O&M support services, spare parts management, customer support and training.
In 2012, Wataniya Telecom’s customer base increased to 19.2 million from 17.8 million in 2011, up 7.8 percent.
Bassam Hannoun, CEO, Wataniya Telecom, said: “We have also been a driving force in mobile penetration growth in Kuwait and are always looking for innovative ways to enhance our subscribers’ experience.”
picture source: commsmea.com
