Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 24 | Page 42

COUNTRY FOCUS: IRAQ Zain Iraq partners with Nokia International to develop Holy Karbala network Zain Iraq has partnered with Nokia International to develop the Holy Karbala network, bringing the latest technology solutions to the region. The partnership answers the needs of city subscribers and visitors to provide a world-class mobile service in Iraq. I n line with its strategy of understanding consumer needs, Zain Iraq has announced an agreement with the Nokia Telecom and Technology Company to expand and develop its network in holy Karbala governorate in central Iraq and Najaf city to provide the latest technology solutions. The announcement was part of a press conference held in the holy city of Karbala and was attended by Karbala governor Ali Al-Turaihi, the President of Karbala Provincial Council Nassif Jassem al-Khattabi, representatives from the Communication and Media Commission and VIPs. The expansion plan, covering the entire south region, aims at optimising subscribers experience through better connectivity and coverage to meet the increasing demands and expectations of its customers inside Iraq and the visits of international roaming users throughout the year. Ali Al-Zahid, Zain Iraq CEO, revealed the volume of investment Zain Iraq has put in developing and modernising its network in Karbala, which amounted to 36 million dollars. This partnership will allow the Zain Iraq network to effectively address voice and mobile broadband requirements of 40 million expected visitors. 42 INTELLIGENTCIO He said: “Our co-operation with Nokia today is part of a bigger strategy aimed at serving our subscribers both inside and outside Iraq who visit the holy religious shrines. Our investments in ICT infrastructure will contribute in improving the economy attracting investments to Karbala and developing the telecom sector. “This is why we decided to upgrade and modernise our network in Karbala governorate to increase its bandwidth capacity– making it a ‘Golden Telecom City’. This decision was based on our deep understanding of visitors and residents needs alike. “This initiative stems from our keenness to co-operate with local communities, stakeholders, and regulatory authorities to improve our services. Zain investment in Iraq infrastructure and network, and being here in Holy Karbala is evidence of our confidence in the country’s economic stability, our trust and commitment in the future of Iraq, particularly Karbala, especially under the challenging circumstances www.intelligentcio.com