50 units launch and tariff reduction

Saturday, August 19th was not only a big day for Celtel’s operation in Sierra Leone but also a major shake-up of the entire mobile telecommunication sector in the country. Besides Celtel launching the lowest and cheapest denomination top up card in the market it also made a significant reduction on its tariff scheme.

The events of the day were executed in two phases. The first phase at 11.00 a.m. was the official launch and announcement of the tariff reduction at a colorful and well attended ceremony at Miatta Conference Hall, Youyi Building in the heart of Freetown, while the second phase in the afternoon was a magnificent street carnival that brought the entire city of Freetown to a standstill.

The launch ceremony was attended by all Celtel local directors and graced by the Governor of Central Bank of Sierra Leone Dr. J.D. Rogers and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Communications Mr. Abdul Raman Wurie who represented the minister.

Speaker after speaker underscored the fact that Celtel is the leader. The IT Director, Tony Theuri set the ball rolling with a well orchestrated welcome story of the ‘wise man and the butterfly’.

The Managing Director, Ted Sauti- Phiri revealed that Celtel’s investment in Sierra Leone is now in the highs of USD.70 Million and therefore making its products and services affordable will automatically enhance the lives of many Sierra Leoneans.

The Governor of Central Bank hailed Celtel’s contribution to economic development in the country by for the last six years buy paying tax, creating employment and an enabling environment by covering the whole country.

The Permanent Secretary expressed the government’s satisfaction with Celtel’s operations in the country and pledged to continue ensuring that there is a level playing field for all mobile service providers so that Celtel can make further strides.

Marketing Director, Bernard Sisay wrapped up by elaborating on why the company has made the decision to reduce tariffs and stated that Celtel as a market leader will continue to do more amidst competition.

In between the speeches, there were entertainment stints by Pupa Bajah and the Bow Wow Society, a popular local group of artists, while Celtel brand ambassador, comedian Vamboi made the guests burst with laughter. Out side the conference hall all was music and hundreds of people wearing Celtel t/shirts and caps. Everything was like a bush fire around the country as all radio stations were carrying live broadcasts.

The afternoon events were another spectacular. The Celtel podium truck took of to the western part of the city playing music and strategically stationed itself at Lumley Police Station. Pupa Bajah and the Bow Wow Society once more entertained the gathered crowd with their popular releases as the Customer Care team gave out leaflets explaining the new tariffs and selling the new 50 units top up card.

Back to the east and central part of the city a Celtel masquerade was on procession in the streets with a superlative crowd that has never been seen before in Freetown. The cultural masquerade which is popularly known as Firestone and only comes out to the streets once every year was specially designed and constructed for this Celtel’s event. The float parade also included 100 motor bikes and 10 flatbed trucks branded with banners and playing loud music.

Simultaneously, all the twelve district headquarters in Sierra Leone were celebrating because of the great news as Celtel endeavors to making life better for everyone.