This is what things will be like as we bring on the next billion, from the emerging markets, over the next 18 months.
Fercryingoutloud, they were lining up eagerly. We’re not talking about any developing country, but one of the poorest and still trying to recover from years of gruesome civil strife. And these folks have almost no money.
What does that say of the power of personal mobile communication?
Knock ’em out, Digicel.
Link: Chron.com | Digicel Offers Cell Phone Service in Haiti.
Haitians eager to try the service started lining up at dawn [emphasis mine – CS] outside the company’s stores, some pushing to get inside.
The launch followed a splashy marketing campaign in which Digicel promised cheaper calling rates, a reliable network and free phones to anyone who canceled service with Haiti’s top mobile provider, Comcel.
"For too long the people of Haiti have had to put up with a terrible service, bad networks, high prices and total unreliability if you pick up the phone to make a call," said billionaire Irish entrepreneur Denis O’Brien, Digicel’s chairman and founder. "From today, we see a new beginning in Haiti."
BTW, I heard this story on the radio and had to link to it.
More on Digicel in this Red Herring article.
Digicel opens up in Haiti
Digicel is the largest mobile phone provider in the Caribbean and has now started offering service in Haiti.
I just recently returned to the USA from Haiti. I visit there several times a year. Your advertising was all over town and so many are excited about your service. Is it possible to obtain a phone before my next visit to activate and be able to have a form of communication while out on the mission field? Is there a service offered to call between USA and Haiti or just within the country? Is there a way to contact you company by telephone? Thank you for your service?
hello Charlie! Nice site you got here. Well, cell phone are a necessity in everyone’s daily lives. I think, sooner there will be more like this and cell phone service providers will come along as days pass. Just check some of the info of cell phone service providers here http://www.bestcellularphoneserviceplans.com.