KABUL - The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) on Sunday said they would soon launch the fourth generation (4G) mobile telecommunication technology system in the country soon, an official said.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the world telecommunications day in Kabul, Eng. Amirzai Sangin said Afghanistan was among the world’s backward countries, with inadequate telecom infrastructure.

He billed Afghanistan’s information technology development as unprecedented in the region, saying his ministry’s revenues stood at $1.3 billion this past decade. In the past three years, the telecom sector revenue was estimated at $650 million and $235 million in 2013 alone.

 At the same time, the sector witnessed $2.2 billion investment, benefiting 140,000 people with work opportunities. Sangin said the 3G system would be replaced soon by 4G -- providing mobile ultra-broadband Internet access.

On the freedom of speech, Sangin said 89 television channels and 220 radio stations were currently on the air in the country. They are trying to switch to a digital broadcasting system from the existing analogue regime.

He confirmed some problems were yet to be addressed, saying 10 percent of Afghans still lacked access to telecommunication services in volatile areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) Chief Executive Officer Qurban Haqjo acknowledged the IT sector development.

He linked the progress to growing demand for IT, good management and the absence of corruption in the relevant ministry. (Pajhwok)