MTN Hits 10 Million Subscriber Base

Mobile operator MTN has announced that it has reached a subscriber-base of 10 million in a telecom voice market that analysts say is near saturation. Chief Executive Officer of MTN, Mr. Michael Ikpoki, said the ability of the network to reach its 10 millionth subscriber was guided by the company�s strong values of leadership, relationship, innovation, and a sense of integrity in its entire human resource. �MTN continues to provide leadership in our industry, build the relevant economic and social relationships, and focus on delivering innovative products and services relevant to the needs of our customers,� he said. He added that MTN has demonstrated its commitment to the socio-economic development of the country by investing more than US$1billion in telecommunications infrastructure across the entire country, making it possible for the network to reach every corner of the country. The company�s contribution to development has been recognised both locally and internationally, winning top awards such as the �Most Valued Brand in Africa�, �Most Valued African Brand�, and �Most Valued Telecoms Brand in Africa� in the maiden Brand Africa 100 Awards ceremony in South Africa. Mr. Ikpoki attributed the success of the company to the loyalty demonstrated by its 10 million subscribers, especially those who embraced the network since its inception in the country. The company�s gesture of appreciation to the Ghanaian community, he added, has resulted in the manner corporate social responsibility has been incorporated as an integral part of its operations. The MTN Ghana Foundation, since its inception in 2007, has committed over 5.8 million in educational and health projects, in hospitals, clinics, health-centres, schools and ICT centres throughout the country. MTN, as part of its 10 millionth subscriber celebrations, has instituted an MTN 10M Milestone Awards programme with a total value of GH�100,000, which seeks to give deserving students from 10 tertiary institutions across the country the opportunity to be selected for scholarships to study. Other offers to customers as part of efforts to appreciate their loyalty will include bonuses on recharge, free airtime to customers, gift-items in the form of electronic gadgets, and improved service at all times. �We as a company will continue our quest to identify the needs of our customers and deliver appropriate products and services based on our findings,� the Chief Executive Officer assured, adding that the landing of the 14,000-kilometre West African Cable System (WACS) and other interventions in the country will boost the company�s voice and data services. Mr. Ikpoki enumerated some of the challenges facing the company, such as the theft of its copper cables and the destruction of underground fibre-optic by road contractors, which have largely brought unwarranted interruptions to network transmissions. He however assured that MTN will leverage on its performance as leader in the mobile communications industry in order to give customers the quality service they deserve in ensuring their socio-economic development.