Zain telecommunication reopens network services in Bentiu

March 23, 2016 (BENTIU) – Zain Telecommunication Company in South Sudan has re-opened its network services in Bentiu town, capital of Northern Liech State (former Unity state), after being dismantled due to the two and a half years of conflict in the oil rich area.

State minister of information and communication, Lam Tunguar Kueigwong, has confirmed to Sudan Tribune that the network has been re-activated through approval from President Salva Kiir.

“It is good news to the citizens of Northern Liech State that the ministry of information and communication has officially re-opened the telecommunication network. Now everyone could be able to access their loved ones and connect with the rest of the country and the world,” said minister Kueigwong.

He said Joseph Nguen Monytuil, the governor of Northern Liech State, petitioned President Salva Kiir, calling on him to authorize for re-activation of telecommunication services, which has resulted to the reopening.

Ruai Peter, a resident of Bentiu town, told Sudan Tribune he is happy again to get reconnected with friends after two years of conflict.

“I’m very happy to hear from my friends after long time without communication,” he said.

Zain network was put off when armed opposition faction of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM-IO) took control of Bentiu town in December 2013 crisis, prompting the government to order the shut-down of all network services in Unity state.

The government’s intention at the time was to block communications of the opposition faction to coordinate regrouping of their rebels forces through the use of phone network in the area.

(ST)