KABUL - Afghanistan's fast-growing telecommunication sector's revenue crossed a staggering $190 million (9.5 billion afs) this solar year -- a neat $30 million jump, compared to last year.
In an exclusive interview with Pajhwok Afghan News, Telecommunication and Information Technology Minister Amirzai Sangin said the sectors' rapid growth across the country had contributed to soaring revenues.
He recalled in 2010, the revenues stood at $160m, but surged to over $190m last year, largely propelled by the robust communication services industry and installation of fiber-optic network crises-crossing the country.
Currently, the high-speed telecommunication cable network is activated in most provinces, which rakes in $5m monthly or $60m annually, he noted.
The ambitious plan to lay fiber-optic cable country-wide kicked-off in 2007, spanning 3,300 kilometers, connecting Kabul with Parwan, Balkh, Faryab, Herat and Kandahar provinces.
The project was completed in two years, said the minister, adding that security risks hampered installation works in some parts of Afghanistan. However, 80 percent work was completed.
With the completion of the mega technology project, subscribers would enjoy cheaper rates for telephone calls, internet, television and radio services, with improved speed and quality as well, Sangin added.
He said another reason for growth in revenues was due to the first-ever third generation telecommunication service technology (3G) introduced in the country, adding that four additional 3G operating licenses would be issued this year – another remarkable achievement for the sector.
The minister said currently 85 per cent of the country enjoyed communication services and there were 18m subscribers nationwide, but in the next two years the entire nation would benefit.
About eight percent users are using internet services but the figure is likely to swell to 50 percent with the introduction of the 3G system and WIMAX next year, added Sangin.
He said the ministry plans to issue WIMAX licenses to private internet companies this year. (Pajhwok)