Nedjma to Take Part in Algeria’s 3G License Auction

Qatari telecoms group Ooredoo, which holds the controlling stake in Moroccan cellco Wataniya Telecom (Nedjma), has expressed its full support for the recently launched 3G license auction in Algeria.

Ooredoo’s chairman Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud Al-Thani commented: ‘We welcome the Algerian authorities’ decision to begin the process for granting 3G licenses. As a long-term partner in the growth and development of the telecommunications sector in Algeria, Ooredoo will participate fully in this process’.\

According to a company press release, Nedjma has invested USD338.9 million in its infrastructure during the last 18 months, with a significant portion of the sum spent on 3G-ready technology and network enhancements; in preparation for 3G’s eventual arrival, Nedjma introduced a new dongle compatible with GSM, EDGE and 3G technology in February 2012.