Mobile network operator (MNO) Orange Mali has reportedly been awarded a new concession which will allow it to commercialise 4G services, according to Agence Ecofin. With the cellco’s existing 2G/3G licence due to expire on 31 July 2017, it is understood that Orange will pay XOF100 million (USD177,000) for its new licence, which will be valid for 15 years.
The development follows reports in February 2017 which said Orange Mali’s ultimate parent company, France-based Orange Group, is planning to invest XAF10 billion this year in its Malian subsidiary. The monies are expected to be used to help the MNO improve its network with a view to enhancing the quality of service on offer, with the cellco said to be planning to undertake a complete renewal of part of its infrastructure. With regards to plans to offer more advanced services, meanwhile, at that date it was claimed that Orange Mali is hoping to introduce 4G technology on a commercial basis in 2018.