HELSINKI -- Mobile operator Ethiopian Telecommunications Corporation (ETC) has selected Nokia to supply and deploy GSM network equipment, including the Nokia Connect GSM solution for optimized network coverage, in a deal valued at 40 million euros. It calls for Nokia, and its main subcontractor LeadCom Integrated Solutions, to supply both GSM core and radio equipment to upgrade part of ETC's existing network. Also included are GPRS for advanced data services and Nokia's Operations Support Systems (OSS).
ETC is a new customer for Nokia's GSM solution and the first in East Africa. Deliveries start immediately with the system targeted for operation in December, initially in the Addis Ababa region.
Nokia will provide a full range of GSM and GPRS network infrastructure, including Nokia ConnectSite 10 and Nokia ConnectSite 100 base stations. Nokia, with LeadCom's help, will also provide implementation of the network, including civil works, network planning, implementation and project management for fast quality ramp-up of the solution.
"We are very happy to welcome ETC as a new GSM customer for Nokia," says Dr. Walid Moneimne, Senior Vice President, Networks, Nokia. "We are gratified that Ethiopia Telecom has chosen Nokia as one of its main GSM suppliers and a trusted partner for the future of its network. East Africa is an important market for us, and this deal is a key milestone in Nokia's network business in Africa, demonstrating our clear and strong commitment to this crucial marketplace."
Training is also provided to help keep the network running at peak performance. The services will be provided using Nokia NetAct (TM), the only fully-featured, multi-vendor, multi-technology operations support system on a single platform.
Nokia Corp.