LUSAKA, Aug. 20 (Xinhua) -- The entry of the fourth mobile phone service operator into the Zambian market marks a significant development in the country's telecommunications sector, the country's competition body said on Monday.
Commenting on the launch of operations by Zed Mobile which has invested 400 million U.S. dollars, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) said the entry of the fourth mobile service operator will enhance the competitive landscape and benefit consumers.
"For many years, the commission has advocated for increased competition within the mobile network sector, recognizing the positive impact this would have on consumer choice, service quality, and pricing of products and services," Brian Lingela, the CCPC's executive director, said in a statement.
The entry of the fourth operator would lead to increased consumer choice, product innovation, competitive pricing and enhanced consumer experience, he said, expressing confidence that the new operator will stimulate further investments in telecommunications infrastructure, especially in underserved and rural areas.
The commission would go a long way in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that more citizens have access to reliable and affordable mobile services in line with the country's information and technology policy, said Lingela.
South Africa's MTN, India's Bharti Airtel and state-owned Zamtel are the other mobile operators offering voice services in Zambia. ■