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Confusion surrounds Telecel Zimbabwe’s ownership structure as its officials are refuting claims that Government intends to take over the telecommunications company.
Officials from the mobile service provider indicated at a press briefing that they are yet to receive official communication on the supposed takeover.
Recent media reports suggested that Government was contemplating purchasing Vimplecom’s 60 percent and Empowerment’s 40 percent equity in Telecel.
However, at a press briefing today, Telecel communications and branding director, Mr Obert Mandimika said: “As management, we do not know if they (Government) have approached the shareholders. We do not have enough information to comment on that until we get clarity and guidance from our shareholders.
“All the principal discussions happen first at shareholder level. We do not have anything yet. I hope in the next few days we will be able to share more information with you as and when it becomes available.”
Telecel has been in the news for some time now regarding its ownership structure with some reports focusing on the aborted sale of part of its stake to Brainworks Capital.
In May 2015, the company got court reprieve against the cancellation of its license by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, Telecel has introduced 10 new franchise stores countrywide as part of efforts to meet increasing customer demands.
Mr Mandimika said this initiative aims to empower local businesspeople by providing them start-up capital and covering costs of branding and furnishing the retail outlets.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter