The Iraqi government has approved multinational telecom giant Vodafone to spearhead the development of its new 5G network, marking a significant step toward modernizing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) announced on Tuesday that the Ministry of Communications has been instructed to commence initial preparations for the project. Vodafone, a globally renowned telecom provider, confirmed ongoing negotiations to provide consultancy services for the design of Iraq’s 5G network.
Vodafone’s entry into Iraq builds on a long-standing partnership with local companies, including a collaboration with Asiacell in 2009. This partnership allowed Vodafone to extend its reach in the Middle East, providing diverse services and solidifying its foothold in Iraq’s growing market.
The new 5G network promises peak speeds of 10 gigabits per second, significantly enhancing download capabilities and reducing latency for seamless communication. This development aligns Iraq with 54 countries that have already embraced 5G technology.
In October 2023, Iraqi Minister of Communications Hiyam Al-Yasiri announced the cabinet’s approval of the 5G rollout, emphasizing the initiative’s role in attracting local investment and advancing the nation’s digital infrastructure.