Orange Cameroon seeks parliamentary support for 3G access

Elizabeth Medou Badang has pleaded to MPs before the National Assembly for the government to grant them 3G access.

The demands, which within the framework of activities of the Parliamentary Network for ICT, have so far remained without any positive response.

She said: "For three years Orange has asked to be able to launch 3G. We welcomed the initiative of the authorities there two years ago, which enabled Cameroon to take a further step towards the development in ICT with the licensing of 3G."

“We soon arrived at the end of the exclusivity period which happens to be concomitant to renew our license. Given our ambitions, we plan to invest heavily in the construction, development and operation of our networks in the coming years.”

The exclusivity of the 3G granted to Viettel Cameroun by the public authorities was due to end this July but the telecom giants sought another extension of two years.

Mrs Badang added: "Honourable Members, Ladies and Gentlemen, Orange Cameroon calls for the urgency of deciding to act," she told the deputies.

"Seize the opportunity presented by 2015, a substantial renewal of concessions must accelerate the achievement of the country's emergence."

“The quality of the internet in a country is a key factor in investment decisions of international companies who now systematically assess, before settling, the availability of infrastructure and services.”

In all countries where broadband internet or high speed broadband is operational, studies show that it is a catalyst for economic and social change; motor development at individual and collective level; effective support and demonstrated GDP growth, innovation, productivity and jobs.