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Charity Ruzvidzo Business Reporter
INTERNET service provider, Powertel says the subscriber base for its recently introduced voice calls based on CMDA technology has reached 5,000. The service, which uses a 08611 prefix, delivers voice services, internet services, branch to branch connectivity, mobile broadband service, carrier services for other telecommunications operators, voice services and other value added services that come with Internet.

To access the service, one needs a gadget that is compatible with CDMA technology, which differs significantly from the commonly used GSM technology offered by most telecommunications operators in the country.

Powertel marketing manager, Prosper Mutswiri said his firm offers the cheapest voice call services in the country.

“We introduced all network calls and on net calls late last year. So far we’ve not less than 5,000 subscribers and the response we’ve received so far is very encouraging,” he said.

“We offer the lowest rates for voice calls. On net calls cost $0,05 and calls across all networks cost $0,08”.

He said the service was available in all major cities that include Bulawayo, Harare, Gweru and Mutare.

“Powertel covers all the major cities and towns in the country. We’re yet to reach rural settlements. Our sim cards are sold at the cost of $1 at all our Powertel offices which also sell CMDA compatible devices. One can also buy our airtime at retail shops,” said Mutswiri.

Last year the firm introduced a state of the art network operations centre, which provides technical resolutions for customers.

The centre operates 24/7, allowing customers readily available conflict resolution.

The call centre is also outsourced to other customers as virtual contact centre services.

The award winning call centre serves Powertel customers and all electricity customers, which makes it the biggest national call centre.

Powertel is a subsidiary of the country’s sole power utility, Zesa Holdings, which also runs the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC).