Afghanistan's telecommunications landscape grapples with unique challenges and innovative solutions, largely due to its rugged geographical features and dispersed population distribution. Vast mountainous terrains and desert expanses make traditional wired networks impractical, thereby necessitating the adoption of alternative infrastructure solutions. Extensive mobile telecommunication networks have emerged as a key solution, with almost 90% of the population now having access to mobile services. Internet penetration, however, remains relatively low due to infrastructural limitations. Interestingly, regional disparities in the nation, such as the concentration of resources within urban territories like Kabul, have led to an uneven telecommunications infrastructure development. Despite this, Afghanistan has seen the implementation of unique innovations like portable solar-powered mobile phone chargers and internet-connected classrooms, providing vital connectivity in remote and strife-ridden regions.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 5 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
Etisalat Afghanistan is a subsidiary of the Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC, commonly known as Etisalat. The parent company, Etisalat, is an Emirati-based multinational telecommunications services provider that operates in multiple countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The company's services include both wired and wireless telecommunications, and it has the right to issue licenses for owning, importing, manufacturing, using, or operating telecommunication equipment in the country.
Etisalat Afghanistan started its operations in Afghanistan in August 2007. The company...
Roshan is a leading telecommunications provider based in Afghanistan. The company (Telecom Development Company Afghanistan Limited) was established in 2003 and is owned by an investment group consisting of Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development, Monaco Telecom International, and Telia Company. Roshan has been instrumental in the development of Afghanistan's telecommunication infrastructure and has played a significant role in the country's economic growth. The company offers a range of services including mobile voice, data, and internet services.
