Recently, different publications have been making rounds that say mobile operators will be seizing operations in rural areas and laying off some staff due to financial constraints.

Qcell is one mobile operator and has issued a press release debunking this statement.

“The management of QCell SL is aware of various alarming publications bearing QCell’s master brand Logo with captions “Mobile operators to seize operations in the rural areas & Telecommunication companies to lay off over 500 staff’, We do wish to inform our delightful customers that QCell SL does not at any time intend to close operations in SL nor is planning to lay off any of our employees.

The management of QCell SL wishes to inform the general public that we are very much aware of the challenges affecting the sector and have always believed in engaging the authorities on the way forward and how institutions charged with the responsibility in the sector can protect the investment of private businesses and at the same time maintain a level playing ground for competition.

We have always been vocal on the free market and do believe there should not be any floor price set but if possible a ceiling/cap so much so to guide operations which will allow players in the sector to compete amicably and at the same time stay true to each of their respective business models.

QCELL as a law-abiding company has always stood for affordability and Quality of Mobile Communication Service for all since its introduction into the SL market in 2019 as a means of supporting the Goals of His Excellency Rt. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone which is to improve the Quality of communication and make mobile communication affordable to all Sierra Leoneans.

We remain committed to providing quality and affordable communications to the people of Sierra Leone and will not relent till this is achieved.”