LUSAKA, Zambia -- All the four companies and consortia that submitted first round bids on 23rd December 2009, for up to 75% stake in Zamtel, have successfully gone to the second round of bidding.

The bidders who shall proceed to the next round are Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) of India, LAP Greencom Ltd/LAP Green Networks of Libya, Unitel /Angola Cables of Angola and Altimo Holdings/Vimpel Com of Russia.The ZDA Board at meeting held on January 11, 2009 approved the recommended shortlist after detailed analysis conducted by an Evaluation Committee.

Commenting on the shortlist at a press briefing to announce the successful bidders, Mr. Muhabi Lungu, Acting Director General of the ZDA said he was happy with all four participants who have gone through to the next stage of the process. “The bids submitted were compelling, and set the stage for an exciting next phase,” he added.

The four bidders will now be invited to participate in the next round of bidding, which is expected to begin during the week commencing 18 January, 2010. At the begining of this phase shortlisted bidders will be given details of the requirements and timing for the next phase of the process. Details of the bids will not be disclosed at this stage as doing so would prejudice future phases of the privatisation process.

Zamtel Telecommunications Company Ltd.