Tmcel, the Mozambican mobile operator, has reported service disruptions in Maputo due to vandalism affecting its equipment. The company is working to restore services while also focusing on community awareness initiatives to prevent future incidents. Financially, Tmcel reduced its losses significantly in 2023 but continues to face challenges, including substantial negative equity. The operator is implementing a modernization plan to enhance its network and service delivery.
The Mozambican mobile network operator, Tmcel, has reported that customers in Maputo are currently without voice and data services due to vandalism affecting its equipment. According to a recent statement, damage to cabinets containing support equipment has disrupted services for users in several districts, including downtown Maputo and nearby areas such as Matola, Polana, Alto-Maé, and Malhangalene.
Tmcel is making substantial efforts to restore services swiftly. The operator highlighted its investment in community awareness and collaboration with local authorities to enhance surveillance measures aimed at preventing further vandalism. They encourage residents to remain vigilant in protecting crucial infrastructure.
In terms of financial performance, Tmcel achieved a significant reduction in losses in 2023, reporting a net loss of 2,130 million meticais (approximately 30.5 million euros), compared to losses of nearly 4,333 million meticais (62.1 million euros) in 2022. The operator ended the fiscal year with 1,842,679 active mobile network customers and 27,466 customers on its fixed network.
The state, as the majority shareholder, intervened in Tmcel in March 2023 to enhance its performance, resulting in the approval of a Revitalization Plan in May. However, by the end of 2023, Tmcel reported negative equity exceeding 10,122 million meticais (145 million euros) due to accumulated losses and liabilities surpassing total assets.
Tmcel was formed in December 2018 through the merger of Telecomunicações de Moçambique (TDM) and Moçambique Celular (Mcel), aiming to establish a unified and competitive market entity. Since then, the workforce has decreased from 2,054 to 1,370 employees over time, reflecting restructuring efforts.
As part of its modernization and expansion project launched in January 2022, Tmcel has upgraded or activated a total of 966 transmission antennas as of the end of 2023. The modernization initiative aims to enhance network performance, with significant increases in broadband capacity and expanded 4.5G coverage, following nearly a decade of limited investment.
In conclusion, Tmcel faces challenges due to vandalism impacting service continuity in Maputo while navigating a significant reduction in operational losses for 2023. The company continues to pursue community engagement strategies to mitigate vandalism incidents and has initiated modernization projects to improve network efficiency. Despite facing financial difficulties, the operator aims to strengthen its position in the market following governmental support and restructuring efforts.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
