BANGALORE, INDIA: Huawei Technologies, provider of next generation telecommunications network solutions, has announced that Warid Group (“Warid”), mobile service provider in South Asia and Africa, has selected Huawei to deploy an advanced IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) system in Uganda. Huawei will construct the IMS core network and integrate it with the WiMAX access network, helping Warid to offer VoIP and IP-based multimedia services.

Under the agreement, Huawei will also provide GSM network components, wireless base stations, a VAS (Value-Added Service) platform, long-distance/international gateway offices and the IP bearer network to help Warid build a future-oriented all-IP network.

Warid is one of the first service providers in the world to offer IMS over WiMAX. By providing wireless access to data and voice services, Warid will be able to quickly provide customers with the advanced services they demand. A wide range of services will be provided to both business users and consumers, including voice, IP Centrex, multimedia communications, prepaid and other value-added services. By leveraging Huawei’s innovative technologies, Warid will also be able to deploy advanced Fixed-Mobile-Convergence (“FMC”) services to attract more subscribers, and improve its competitive edge without having to make additional investments.

Since the contract was signed, progress on the project has been excellent, with the Core/IMS equipment installation nearing completion. The first IP call was made over the IMS network on 3 September 2007.

“Huawei as the mainstream equipment supplier, provides us with innovative industry core solutions, which we believe will keep us always one step ahead of the competition in terms of both technologies and networks.” said Mr. Bashir Tahir, CEO of Warid.

“Sophisticated services providers like Warid are seizing opportunities to bring the benefits of FMC to new markets.” Commented Ding Yun, vice president of Huawei. “Huawei is excited to be part of this effort. Our IMS products are successfully deployed in both large and small networks and are rapidly proving the value of this architecture. Our total commitment to customer partnership means that Warid is assured of having a network for the future.”