Mobile Network Operators in Zambia forms new industry lobby group, GSMAZ

Zambian Mobile Network Operators have formed a new group called the Global System for Mobile Association of Zambia (GSMAZ).

The newly formed association launched by the Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati is to have a strong industry lobby group for GSM telecommunication operators in Zambia.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Zambia, Bart Hofker, who doubles as the group’s chairperson, noted that the coming together of three mobile operators, MTN Zambia, Airtel Network Zambia Plc, and Zamtel is to ensure growth and sustainability in the country’s telecom sector.

He said GSMAZ will collaborate with ZICTA, the local government, and other organizations to promote policies that encourage the growth of the digital economy.

“This is in line with the government objective to increase access to and utilization of a broad range of high quality and reasonably priced financial services, particularly for women, young people, and people with disabilities, those residing in rural areas as well as small and medium scale enterprises which are essential in ensuring citizen participation in the economy,” he stated.

According to Mr. Hofker, GSMAZ will utilize its platform for influencing and ensuring the emergence and sustained development of pro-competitive, harmonized telecommunications policies, and legal and regulatory frameworks in Zambia.

"We are and remain fierce competitors, but we also work closely on matters of common interest. The main objective of GSMAZ is to ensure a strong and vibrant mobile telecommunication sector in Zambia, which will help build a more inclusive society where all Zambians can prosper," he added.
He then expressed the group's profound appreciation to the industry regulator, ZICTA, and the Ministry of Technology and Science for supporting the establishment of the association.

By: Kanto Okanta