Zimbabwe plans NetOne’s privatisation to raise funds

www.WirelessFederation.com/news: The privatisation of NetOne, the state owned mobile operator, a part of government’s privatisation plan has generated huge interest. CEO Reward Kangai has reportedly said that since 15 September, when the power-sharing agreement was signed, there has been an increase in inquiries from the UK, Canada, Italy and other countries, looking for opportunities.
NetOne, nation’s second largest mobile operator is competing with the two privately owned telcos for the Zimbabwean mobile market.
The sale is part of an effort to bring in the funds to boost the economy which has been hit by the hyperinflation, political strife and disease.
The Zimbabwe telecommunications industry, has been suffering by nearly a decade of political turmoil, with crumbling infrastructure and the imposition of crippling state controls. Kangai said that one reform planned by the government for the telecoms industry was the removal of high tax charges on imported equipment. Telecoms companies are being taxed up to 60% on imported materials.