Qtel Group celebrates launch of 3G services in Tunisia

With launch coverage extending to 48% of the population, Tunisiana will offer 3G services in the regions of Tunis, Sfax, Sousse, Djerba, Cap Bon, Hammamet and Nabeul. The aggressive rollout will soon be extended to cover 71% of the population by the end of the year, with 87% coverage planned for early 2013.

Qtel Group companies continue to roll-out improved networks and enhanced services for customers across North Africa, the Middle East and Asia, recognising the major social and economic benefits that such improvements bring. According to the World Bank, a 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration drives 1.4% increase in GDP for low to middle income countries.

Dr. Nasser Marafih, CEO of the Qtel Group, commented: "The Tunisiana team really did something exceptional in bringing 3G services to its customers only three months after receiving the license and just in time for the holy month of Ramadan. By giving faster internet access to more Tunisians at competitive prices, they are helping to fulfill two of our Group's highest priorities: providing superior customer experience and offering the best broadband service possible. We are proud of their achievement."

Tunisiana's license allows the company to deploy an HSPA+ network on both 900 Mhz and 2100 Mhz bands, providing for deeper indoor coverage for customers and high definition voice quality.

"With this network, we are able to provide a quality 3G offering that will deliver the best customer experience in Tunisia. Most importantly, Tunisiana will continue its tradition of providing affordable, flexible offerings for all Tunisians, including the lowest price 3G handset," said Ken Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of Tunisiana.

The Tunisiana offering will include flexible tariffs allowing for daily, weekly and monthly usage.

The Qtel Group continues to execute a unified, broadband‐ready strategy for introducing high-speed Internet services across multiple markets around the world, to provide an enriched experience for its 84 million customers.