Movicel: We Are Delivering Superior Value to Our Customers

Movicel is a leading mobile operator in Angola. The company has grown rapidly since its founding in 2002. Movicel launched its first LTE network in May 2012 and became the only operator to concurrently run four mobile networks—CDMA, GSM, UMTS and LTE. Movicel's networks cover 18 provinces all over the Angola. Today, one third of population is using Movicel's voice or data services. ZTE Technologies recently interviewed Movicel CEO Yon Junior. He talked about the cooperation with ZTE, the challenges of operating in Angola, and Movicel's strategy.

Q: What made you join Movicel one and a half years ago?

A: Angola is one of the most energetic and exciting countries in the world, and telecommunications is a key part of Angola's present and future. There is great potential for telecommunications development in this country. In our industry, working for Movicel is a landmark in one's career. I joined Movicel to deliver the best telecommunications services to the Angolan people. It is my duty to help in the present and future development of this country.

Q: You have worked for Brazil Telecom and Telefonica. What are the challenges of operating in Angola compared to Brazil?

A: Challenges in Angola and Brazil are pretty much the same: providing good services, fair prices and universal access while also ensuring a fruitful return for shareholders. Good services and reasonable prices are vital to attracting customers. Universal access should also be considered. The environment in the two countries is actually very similar; the authorities have a good vision of the role of their regulatory bodies.

Q: The average monthly net income has greatly increased since you joined Movicel. What are the key drivers behind Movicel's success? What specific measures have you taken?  

A: Thank you for your appreciation. The success Movicel has achieved today can be attributed to our whole team. As the Chinese saying goes, “When people are of one mind and heart, they can move Mt. Tai.” Our success is a credit to everyone involved—which includes definitely ZTE. I think the key drivers of Movicel's success are quality, coverage and network capacity for both data and voice services. We also have an easy-to-understand product portfolio supported by easy-to-find point of sales.  

Q: What is the status of Movicel's 4G network? Is there a new deployment plan?  

A: Movicel's 4G network has received widespread attention. Financial Times   featured the network in its special issue about Angola. Not long ago, BBC also interviewed us. Our status has improved a lot. We have made great contributions to 4G wireless communications and created history. Next, we will do our best to offer satisfactory products and services and expand our business.

Q: How has ZTE contributed to Movicel's growth?

A: ZTE is a great partner for us. Movicel would not be in the position it is without the bold partnership with ZTE. You company has played an important role in Movicel's growth in recent years. It has provided onboard, cutting-edge technology and has a dedicated, committed team that has a sense of urgency. ZTE is our partner of choice. Thank you ZTE!

Q: What do you expect from the cooperation between ZTE and Movicel?    

A: ZTE is a good partner for Movicel. Although we are just at the beginning of our journey together, there is still much more to come. I expect we will cooperate very well and achieve win-win outcomes in the future.

Q: Movicel and ZTE have cooperated on “on-the-job training.” How is this going? Has it been helpful for Movicel?  

A: Every company must have this on-the-job training. It is important for our employees to know how to perform properly. Good on-the-job training helps improve our efficiency and image. Cooperation between Movicel and ZTE on this project is going very well. Every step is under control. More than 90% of our team are locals, which makes us very proud. Training is a must, and ZTE delivers extraordinary well.  

Q: What is Movicel's strategy for the next three years?