John Stanton Envisions Copper-Free Haiti

BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Speaking at the International CTIA Wireless Show today, Trilogy Chairman John Stanton described the role of wireless technology in recovery efforts in Haiti and unveiled his vision for transforming Haiti – the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere – into the world’s first truly wireless nation.

Widely regarded as one of the fathers of the wireless industry, Stanton sees Haiti as the next frontier for wireless networks. Stanton believes that wireless technology is capable of stepping up to serve as a hub for spurring development in impoverished areas by catalyzing advancement in economic growth, education, healthcare and other critical sectors. Wireless phones are also instruments of democracy as they expand access to information across communities.

“We see Haiti as a model for information and communications services in the 21st century,” said Stanton during his keynote address. “Our vision for the rebuilding of Haiti is to leapfrog older technologies and create a wireless platform that will become a foundation for a new economic ecosystem. Haiti can be the first “copper-free” country in the world. Haiti can have a first-class telecom infrastructure without landline service – based entirely on wireless technology.”

“Now wireless is the focus of innovative programs to help earthquake survivors rebuild,” added Brad Horwitz, President CEO of Trilogy. “For example, many organizations that are implementing cash for work programs will use wireless phones as mobile wallets, so that they can pay workers safely and efficiently.”

The Haiti telecom operator Voilà, owned by Trilogy, has already been instrumental in providing local and international communications service to over a million Haitian customers, thousands of relief workers, a variety of international NGOs, and U.S. government agencies working in Haiti. Since the earthquake struck, wireless has been at the center of first responders’ efforts to identify and rescue survivors, spread critical information on vaccinations and food distributions, and provide health services. In the future, new applications will continue expanding the role of wireless technology.

“Wireless technologies saved countless lives following the earthquake; the durability of the cellular network was a lifeline for tens of thousands. Going forward, my country hopes to deploy the newest generation of wireless communications systems to enhance governance, commerce, healthcare and education,” said Haiti’s Ambassador to the U.S. Raymond Joseph. “These technologies are essential for the future of Haiti.”

About Voilà and Trilogy International Partners

Voilà is a leading mobile telecommunications operator in Haiti, providing high‐quality, affordable wireless service. Since its inception 10 years ago, it has invested over US$200 million in Haiti. Voilà employs over 500 local staff and provides indirect employment to more than 15,000 Haitians through a micro‐enterprise venture whereby local entrepreneurs sell time on a customized cell phone. Voilà is a subsidiary of Trilogy International Partners LLC, a privately‐held company based in Bellevue, WA. Trilogy also owns wireless communications systems in the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, and New Zealand. For more information on Trilogy, please see its website: www.trilogy‐international.com.

Contact:

Waggener Edstrom
Joe Farren, 202-261-7813
JFarren@waggeneredstrom.com