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List of Mobile Operators in Afghanistan

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Afghanistan has a competitive telecommunications market with several mobile operators providing services across the country. Here is an in-depth discussion of the key mobile operators in Afghanistan:

  1. Afghan Wireless Communication Company (AWCC):
    • Overview: Afghan Wireless is one of the oldest and largest mobile operators in Afghanistan. It was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Kabul. AWCC has played a significant role in the development of the telecom sector in Afghanistan.
    • Services: AWCC offers a wide range of mobile services, including voice, data, messaging, and mobile banking. They have been instrumental in providing connectivity to both urban and rural areas.
  2. Roshan (Telecom Development Company Afghanistan Ltd.):
    • Overview: Roshan, often referred to as Afghan Telecom, is another major player in the Afghan telecom market. It was launched in 2003 and is headquartered in Kabul. Roshan is known for its emphasis on social responsibility and community development.
    • Services: Roshan offers a comprehensive range of mobile services, including voice, data, messaging, and mobile financial services. They have made significant investments in expanding network coverage and quality.
  3. MTN Afghanistan (MTN Group):
    • Overview: MTN Afghanistan is a subsidiary of the multinational telecommunications company MTN Group. It has been operating in Afghanistan since 2007 and is headquartered in Kabul. MTN is known for its global presence and diverse range of services.
    • Services: MTN Afghanistan provides mobile telephony, data, messaging, and value-added services. They have a strong focus on digital solutions and mobile banking.
  4. Etisalat Afghanistan (Etisalat Group):
    • Overview: Etisalat Afghanistan is a subsidiary of the multinational telecommunications company Etisalat Group based in the United Arab Emirates. It has been operating in Afghanistan since 2007 and is headquartered in Kabul. Etisalat is known for its international presence and advanced technology.
    • Services: Etisalat Afghanistan offers a range of mobile services including voice, data, messaging, and mobile banking. They have been active in introducing advanced technologies and innovative services.
  5. Salaam Telecom (Afghan Telecom Company):
    • Overview: Salaam Telecom is a brand under the state-owned Afghan Telecom Company. It operates as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) and is part of the government's efforts to expand telecom services in Afghanistan.
    • Services: Salaam Telecom provides mobile services including voice, data, and messaging. It operates on the network infrastructure of Afghan Telecom.

Key Trends and Features:

  1. Network Expansion: Operators in Afghanistan have been actively expanding their network coverage, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to improve connectivity across the country.
  2. Focus on Data Services: With the increasing demand for data services, operators have been rolling out high-speed internet and data-centric plans to meet the needs of consumers.
  3. Mobile Financial Services: Mobile operators have been introducing mobile banking and financial services to facilitate digital payments and financial inclusion in the country.
  4. Social Responsibility: Many operators in Afghanistan engage in various social responsibility initiatives, including education and healthcare programs, to contribute to the well-being of local communities.