The Qatar-based operator has hired the international counsel for the greenfield deployment, and the agreement also addresses Ooredoo’s corporate social responsibility initiatives. It has reportedly pledges to invest $60 million in corporate social responsibility over ten years, and increase internet access across Myanmar’s public schools, universities, libraries, hospitals and clinics.
As part of its roll-out, Ooredoo has claimed it will provide mobile voice and data coverage to 84% of the population within five years.
“The considerable corporate social responsibility initiatives which will be rolled out by Ooredoo will benefit Myanmar and its people – these include e-health and mobile education programs and mobile payment services,” said Gigi Cheah partner at Norton Rose Fulbright.
In other developments across Myanmar, it is thought Ooredoo and Telenor will not be the only two operators competing in the country, with reports in a national publication claiming that an army owned company has struck a partnership with Myanmar Post and Telecom.
There are growing industry concerns that a state owned company is likely to be given preferential treatment as a result.
Capacity will hold its first conference dedicated to Myanmar's market, in Nay Pyi Taw from 10-11 September this year.
