The President of South Sudan Salva Kiir Mayardit has launched the first ever locally-owned telecommunications operator that will compete with Zain and South Africa’s MTN in the provision of mobile phone and internet services, among others.

The company, Digitel Network, owned by South Sudanese investors, is expected to fast-track connectivity in areas not serviced by foreign telecom operators.

Mayardit said the South Sudanese government is committed to bringing mobile phone services to rural areas, and the region needs to catch up with the rest of the world in terms of digital technology.

He said the launch of the new operator is the result of the government’s partnership with the private sector, and that the government will explore options - including tax exemptions - that will benefit the importation of network equipment and other telecommunications tools.

He added that the tax exemption will be regulated in collaboration with the National Revenue Authority to ensure modalities for tax exemptions are consistent with its mandate, and that the equipment will help increase digital literacy programmes for “a next generation ICT driven economy.”

“The installation of mobile phone infrastructure is an ongoing process and so far a few areas including Rumbek North County have already been connected to the network and in the next three weeks, many more areas will be connected. My government played a role in ensuring that Digitel operates in the country,” Mayardit said.

The executive vice president of Digitel Network, Athiei De Chan Awuol said: “For four years, Digitel has been a work in progress. And for us to launch our communication services shows that South Sudan can contribute towards a bright future for ourselves, for our children and the next generation.”

In 2016, the government withdrew the operating licence of the Lebanese operator Vivacell over allegations that the company failed tax arrears.