Ericsson to expand, upgrade mobile network for Warid Telecom Pakistan

Ericsson has been selected to expand and upgrade leading Pakistani operator Warid Telecom’s GSM/GPRS network. The move will enable Warid to enhance network capacity and quality for its expanding subscriber base.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will supply, install and commission core, radio, microwave and optical-transmission network equipment, and take responsibility for site acquisition and civil works. The contract also includes expansion of Warid’s existing Ericsson Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MPBN).

Ericsson will also provide network design and integration services. The equipment supplied under this contract will be managed under an existing agreement for managed services.

Marwan Zawaydeh, CEO of Warid, says: “By boosting our network capacity and quality, we are well-positioned to deliver our customers a richer mobile communications experience. This agreement represents an extension of our strategic partnership with Ericsson and builds upon Ericsson’s leading technology, global experience and strong local presence.”

Zibber Mohiuddin, Head of Ericsson Pakistan, says: “This contract reflects the strong regional growth of mobile telephony. It also shows Ericsson’s ability to support rapidly increasing subscriber numbers and to cater for increased capacity demands.”

Warid Telecom is the fastest growing GSM mobile company in Pakistan with more than 13 mln subscribers in more than 180 cities all over Pakistan. It is owned by the Abu Dhabi Group, led by Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. Abu Dhabi Group’s other investments in Pakistan include Bank Alfalah, United Bank Limited, Taavun, Wateen Telecom and Raseen. The group has launched its telecom operations in Bangladesh, Congo-Brazzaville and Uganda. It also has plans to launch services in the Ivory Coast. Singapore Telecom has a 30% equity stake in Warid Telecom.