The Sunday Mail
MOBILE network operator Telecel Zimbabwe has said it will not shut down operations because it has a pact with Government to pay outstanding licence fees within an agreed timeframe.
Last week, ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Supa Mandiwanzira said Cabinet had already approved closure of the firm due to non-compliance with regulations such as paying for an operating licence.
And in a statement yesterday, Telecel Zimbabwe said shareholders were working flat-out to comply with regulatory requirements.
“Telecel Zimbabwe has taken the Government’s recent announcement on its licensing and shareholding non-compliance very seriously. Our shareholders are engaging with relevant stakeholders and are working closely and tirelessly with all key authorities to find a lasting solution to the issue.
“We remain fully committed to Zimbabwe and to working with the Government in order to comply with all legal and regulatory requirements within the agreed timeframe. Telecel Zimbabwe takes very seriously its legal, financial, operational and social responsibilities.
“Telecel serves over two million customers in Zimbabwe and is a fully paid-up abiding tax contributor. We have invested an estimated US$237million into the country’s mobile infrastructure since inception in 1998. Currently, we employ over 1 000 permanent and contract employees.
“In addition, Telecel contributes US$700 000 annually through its on-going CSR programme, which is aimed at making a difference in the lives of various Zimbabwean communities. We have been, and remain, supportive to the continued development of the country, including ensuring the universal access to mobile communications services by all people at affordable prices.”
Telecel Zimbabwe signed a seven year licence payment plan with the Postal and Telecommunications Authority of Zimbabwe, but Government said the regulator overstepped its boundaries.
