i2 connects in Sudan in partnership with Nokia

i2, the largest and most diverse mobile provider in Africa and the Middle East held a press briefing today to announce the launch of its operations in Sudan. i2 introduces its retail concept and after

i2 is the first authorized Nokia distributor and service center in the country as well as being the first to offer mobile subscribers original Nokia devices with matching accessories and a one-year warranty. In Sudan, i2 will be available through its showroom, distribution network and service center. i2’s operation in Sudan will be managed by Mohamed Osman El Tayyeb, Chairman, and Hussein Raouf Atwi, General Manager.

“Africa is an important market for i2. It is our goal to make sure that Africa’s growing market is provided with the best products and services available. Therefore we are planning to continue making substantial investments into Sudan and other countries across the continent” stated Bashar AlKadhi, VP Africa - i2 Group.

i2 plans to expand its operation throughout Sudan within the year to include Bahri, Im Dourman and Kalaka. i2 has opened a branch in the state of Adbara and plans to expand to Madani and Port Sudan.

Nokia has long recognized Africa as an important market for the company's business. Since early 1990, Nokia has provided mobile phones, enhancement, telecoms networks and related infrastructure and services to operators and customers throughout Africa. “Nokia’s approach is to develop and support all local distributors and service partners in all countries. Nokia has been working closely with our regional distributor, i2 across most countries in the Middle East and Africa for many years now. As one of Nokia's authorized distributor, i2 has been distributing Nokia's handsets and services through their retail channels to customers in the area and we welcome this initiative today to come and set up in Sudan as well. i2 will be able to offer Nokia's customers authentic Nokia handsets and official Nokia Customer Care Services to ensure that customers in Sudan receive the best possible Nokia experience," said Jarmo Santala, General Manager for Nokia Customer and Market Operations North West Africa.

The cost effectiveness of GSM-based services in comparison to fixed-lines has encouraged the fast growth of mobile services in Africa. Nevertheless, mobile penetration levels in Africa remain low.

“i2 has a big role to play in the development of the mobile market in Africa. We want to make sure that it’s growing market follows international standards of product quality and service” stated Abdul Hameed Al Sunaid, President and CEO, i2.