Gabon expands mobile services
Gabon has a mobile penetration rate of around 190% (at end-2014), which is one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa. The country’s telecommunications sector could receive a boost over the next few years from the roll-out of more extensive 3G and 4G mobile networks. Service providers have invested heavily to expand their infrastructure across Libreville and Port Gentil, which is likely to intensify competition between the three service providers (Zain of Bharti Airtel, Libertis of Gabon Telecom and Moov of Maroc Telecom). In addition to this, mobile money service providers are seeking to leverage the country’s mobile networks and expand their service offering in Gabon. For instance, Visa and Bharti Airtel are partnering up to increase their presence in the local and regional market which should increase financial inclusion, as well as create new payment options for businesses and individuals.