MTN could not have bought out Zain.. They compete in many of the 15 markets that Zain Africa operates in. A merger, maybe, a buy-out - no way.

Don't prepare for low rates. They may happen, but i will be surprised if they go below 6 bob. It has to be commercially viable. They are falking out $10.6bn for operations that are slowly losing cash, the focus will be on profitability.

Last years results from Zain's africas operations declined sharply compared to 2008. download them here - http://www.zain.com/muse...rts/Earning%20Releases.

I think $10.6bn is a huge premium. Add a 4.6bn debt, and u get the picture.

There has been so many top changes in Zain that a change in ownership is imminent.

Kecell/celtel/Zain = poorly marketed, branded superior product. Safaricom = well branded, marketed crap product.

thats right @ wasee. and those numbers definately means a minus on safaricom's numbers.

Am thinking of doing a yu turn. looks like a better deal. naona zain inaweza lala. as for safcom, i maintain it to receive calls, but start using yu to call. thats the plan

The interesting things is that safaricom has always led the way when it comes to innovation and business model. the indian companies also have very interesting business model. they lease equipment and network management allowing them to concentrate on customer care. this also allows them to reduce costs.
Its a well known fact that safricom's market share is bound to shrink(even MJ admitted)but remember that they a dominant player and for as long a they remain innovative the need to engage in a price war is not immediate