Mobile operator Millicom (S.L) LTD has chosen LeadCom and Nokia to supply Nokia Connect GSM equipment for Millicom's network in Sierra Leone. Millicom Sierra Leone is the first African operator to implement the Nokia Connect GSM solution for optimized network coverage. The Nokia solution gives competitive advantages to operators in new growth markets by allowing them to provide voice service at a low total cost of ownership.
LeadCom Integrated Solutions, a Nokia value-added reseller, will provide Nokia ConnectSite 100 base stations, the Nokia Connect Base Station Controller, the Nokia FlexiHopper microwave radio and other equipment. LeadCom will provide implementation services to Millicom, with the support from Nokia. Deliveries will start in January 2004.
"We operate in a market that is clearly poised for strong growth in the next few years," says Youval Rosh, President of Millicom International Cellular Africa. "The Nokia Connect GSM solution provides the reliable technology and cost-efficiencies that will help us drive this new growth forward."
"This agreement is proof of our good relationship with MilIicom and strong cooperation with Nokia," says Arik Alcalay, CEO, LeadCom. "Our role as value-added reseller is the optimal approach to serving the needs of Millicom by providing quality Nokia products. This is an excellent example of providing the right solutions to the right markets fast and effectively."
"We are very happy to be supplying to Millicom, a new GSM customer for Nokia," says Steen Boas Andersen, Director, Nokia Networks. "And we are equally pleased to be introducing the Nokia Connect GSM solution to Africa. Nokia Connect GSM is a perfect solution for Millicom, making it easier for the operator to offer mobile communications to a greater number of people. As part of the Nokia Connect GSM solution, the Nokia ConnectSite base station helps bring the benefits of digital service to rural populations in new growth markets."
The Nokia ConnectSite 100 base station is part of the Nokia Connect GSM Solution for highly optimized network deployments. Through the Nokia Connect GSM Solution, operators are able to lower network-related expenditures in building, for example, rural coverage, compared to traditional GSM network solutions. These savings are made possible in part by new, preconfigured base station solutions, reducing the business risk of building new sites and strengthening the strategy for markets with low average revenue per user levels. This allows operators to focus on offering handsets and services tailored precisely for entry-level mobile phone customers.
LEADCOM INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS Ltd., Based in Azur, Israel, has been a Nokia GSM VAR since January 2003. LeadCom's main target territory for GSM VAR activities is Africa, where LeadCom has represented Nokia in many public tenders and presentations. In addition, LeadCom is active in Eastern Europe. LeadCom today is Nokia's only global VAR covering the EMEA region. LeadCom also was a Nokia roll-out and network planning partner before becoming a GSM VAR.
Millicom (Sierra Leone) Limited is a subsidiary of Millicom International Cellular S.A. (MIC), a global telecommunications investor with cellular operations in Asia, Latin America and Africa. It currently has a total of 16 cellular operations and licenses in 15 countries. The Group's cellular operations have a combined population under license of approximately 444 million people.
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed broadband and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on five major exchanges.
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Notes to Editor:
The Nokia Connect GSM Solution is an integrated solution that combines optimized network infrastructure, network management systems and operator services. Combined with Nokia entry-level terminals, the Nokia Connect GSM Solution allows operators to realize savings in CAPEX and OPEX and offer handsets and services tailored precisely for entry-level mobile phone customers.
Significant savings can be achieved through use of Nokia ConnectSite 10 and Nokia ConnectSite 100 base stations, which utilize a "shelter-less installation" concept. "Shelter-less" means that the base stations are located close to the antenna masts, avoiding costly on-ground installations.
The solution consists of reliable and robust network elements:
- Complete site solutions based on "shelter-less" Nokia ConnectSite 10 and Nokia ConnectSite 100 base stations, including auxiliaries, transmission and site services. Shelter-less means that the base stations are located close to the antenna masts, avoiding costly on-ground installations.
- Nokia Connect Base Station Controller for expandable capacities and enhanced functionality.
- The scalable Nokia GSM core network, including MSC, HLR and the INAP-based Nokia Connect Prepaid service.
- A centralized Nokia Connect Network Management System for reduced need for site visits.
Nokia valued added resellers (VARs) are service-capable companies building long-term business in mobile communication by acting as equipment re-sellers, system integrators and service providers of Nokia network equipment to operators. VARs are an additional sales channel for Nokia Network that bring local understanding of business and government.