Intracom punches in GSM payphone package

The agreement, which builds upon an existing relationship between the two companies, will allow Sonatel to improve access to Senegal's rural regions.

The Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) payphones are specifically designed to serve areas which are out of reach of a standard telephone line, and will provide users with high-quality and circuit-switched data across a wireless network. The GSM technology platform come equipped with an enhanced management system, which will enable Sonatel to administer its wide network quickly and efficiently.

Sonatel has already deployed Intracom's Payphone products and solutions for their Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) network, and this latest agreement marks the next stage in the relationship between the two organizations.

'While mobile phone usage is on the rise in our territory, GSM Payphones will be vital for people who live in remote areas and cannot afford the cost of owning a GSM phone and line, to remain connected,' said a spokesperson for Sonatel.

'For our payphone installation project, Intracom was an obvious choice. We already enjoy a highly-beneficial relationship with Intracom, and the integrated management system they provide is unparalleled,' the spokeperson continued.

Intracom will install the GSM payphones as a turnkey solution, and will also provide additional guidance to Sonatel about the new service. To complement these services, Intracom has developed a comprehensive business model for Sonatel, enabling the customer to maximize the return on its investment.

'Extending communication to rural areas through the GSM network is a major project, and we are honoured to have been asked to carry it to completion. This agreement indicates the excellent reputation Intracom has developed around the world, and we will be putting all our skills and services to use in meeting Sonatel's requirements,' said Stavros Vougas, managing director, Intracom Middle East.

Intracom's installation of the GSM payphones will provide a development model which can be replicated in several other countries. As the leading supplier of this technology across Senegal, Intracom has reinforced its profile in West Africa, and expects to win further deals across the region.

'The African market is booming for the telecommunications sector, and there are plenty of opportunities to improve the infrastructure in this area. We have made a vital move towards securing extensive market share in Africa, and have showcased our leading-edge technology in the process,' Vougas continued.