Somalia Finally Gets GSM Operator to Provide One Code and One Rate Nationwide

GAROWE, Puntland-Somalia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Somafone, a GSM mobile network operator in Somalia, today announced that it has launched service in the Puntland region including Garowe, Galkaio, Bosaso and other cities, utilizing hosted managed services from Tecore Networks, a global supplier of multi-technology 2G, 3G and 4G mobile network infrastructure. As Somafone continues to expand its network to cover the entire country, it is the only one of 10 operators in Somalia which offers service in multiple regions under a single mobile code (252-60) and one rate plan. This deployment demonstrates how innovative infrastructure solutions delivered under a managed service can provide state-of-the-art communications in challenging locations.

The Somafone network is based on Tecore’s iBSS Super-Capacity GSM Radio Access Network (RAN), featuring: high channel capacity and quad-band operation; bandwidth and backhaul optimization; footprint and power minimization; and RAN sharing support. Traffic is backhauled via IP over VSAT to the iCore switching platform hosted and managed by Tecore at a centralized facility. Local calls are switched within the RAN, avoiding costly tromboning over satellite connectivity. Tecore’s Managed Services team has assumed end-to-end responsibility for network design, installation, operation and performance monitoring based on an ISO 9001:2008-certified customer-driven management system.

In addition, Somafone is activating Tecore’s FarSite extended-range feature on the iBSS RAN. FarSite achieves a cell radius of up to 120 km, quadruple the standard range of a GSM base station. It overcomes a limitation on cell radius imposed by the GSM radio channel structure. The dramatically increased range is particularly beneficial to operators in remote or rural locations, who can install less equipment without sacrificing performance.

Somafone’s technology and deployment strategies have enabled unique service offerings. These include:

• a single mobile code (252-60) and rate plan across territories in Somalia
• lowest cost for all domestic and international calls
• wireless Internet via GPRS/EDGE
• value-added features such as SMS, SMS-to-e-mail, MMS, USSD, prepaid, balance transfer via USSD
• local prepaid roaming and international roaming including SMS and MMS
• incoming international calls terminated by Belgacom and iBasis; other international operators who wish to connect directly to Somafone’s gateway should contact IDDD@somafone.com.

“Somalia has been divided for much of its history, but it continues to be one of the most productive nations in Africa according to the United Nations,” said Abdirahman A. Hussein, General Manager of Somafone. “Somafone is supporting a bustling society and economy by providing the necessary bridge of communications between communities. We are very proud to be the first to offer one mobile code and one rate, matching the standard in the rest of the world.”

“Tecore’s hosted managed services are built on a multi-technology, all-IP mobile networking platform. We’ve lowered the initial investment for operators anywhere in the world, who can deploy our iBSS RAN connected over IP to our centralized iCore supporting multiple operators,” said Bruce Portell, Chief Operating Officer, Tecore Networks. “Utilizing our portfolio of technology solutions and end-to-end hosted managed services, operators can entrust their continuous technology advancement to the experts, and focus on winning and satisfying customers.”

About Somafone

Somafone Telecommunications Service Company (operating as Somafone) is Somalia's current leading mobile telephone operator. It was formed in 2003 as a fully owned subsidiary of Somafone FZ LLC of Dubai Internet City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Somafone is and will continue implementing best practices based on international standards and our unique knowledge of the Somali market conditions, ensuring a superior quality of service that is customer-focused and will benefit every subscriber.

About Tecore Networks

Tecore Networks is a global supplier of multi-technology 2G, 3G and 4G mobile network infrastructure. Built with the same standards-based voice and data technologies available to global carriers on an IP-based architecture, we have dramatically enhanced functionality while minimizing space requirements, installation time and cost of ownership. We also offer integrated value-added features to enable our customers to increase ARPU and retention. Our solutions include core as well as radio access network infrastructure, supported by state-of-the-art professional services. Founded in 1991, Tecore is ISO 9001:2008 certified, and is a three-time winner of the Global Mobile (3GSM) Award. For more information, visit www.tecore.com.

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