Digicel Launches Its Bigger, Better Network in Tonga


May 7, 2008

Digicel, has launched in Tonga, further strengthening its regional footprint in this market. Digicel Pacific now operates across Samoa, Papua New Guinea and Tonga with launches pending in Fiji and Vanuatu.

Investing more than US$20 million, Digicel has built an upgraded state-of-the-art network offering unbeatable coverage across all of Tonga, 24/7 customer care, and exciting first-to-market services for customers at the most competitive prices.

Tonga has a population of 102,000 people with mobile penetration at just 35 percent.

"We are very excited about our launch in Tonga, and our goal is to become the number one operator in the nation by bringing the kind of technology innovation, service and value Tonga has never had before," said Digicel Pacific CEO, Vanessa Slowey. "We have upgraded and expanded our network right across Tongatapu, Vava'u, Ha'apai and Eua to deliver crystal clear, unbeatable coverage throughout the Kingdom of Tonga and introduce mobile service to some communities for the first time ever."

On Thursday, May 8th, Digicel will open impressive modern stores in more than 12 locations throughout Tongatapu, Vava'u, Ha'apai and Eua, offering the widest range of brand new mobile handsets with prices starting as low as US$25. For the first time ever, Digicel will also introduce one flat rate for all on-network calls day or night.

"For the first time ever, we're introducing many new services and offering mobile technology innovations that will change the way people communicate," said Digicel Tonga Sales Director Tapu Panuve. "Flat rate pricing structure and postpaid accounts will give our customers a wider range of pricing plans to choose from. With new products like Credit U, Call Me and international roaming it makes mobile communications so much easier and accessible for the people of Tonga," said Panuve.

Digicel employs more than 100 people in Tonga with 300 jobs created indirectly.