Morocco World News/ Maghreb Intelligence
New York, October 4, 2011
While Morocco launched 3G technology in 2006, which has significantly increased internet access, Algeria, where the potential is enormous, is still dragging its feet. This situation has created much discontent among traders and small investors who visit the country.
Indeed, according to a French businessman of Algerian origin, the first thing that a young investor does as soon as he makes his way to to any country is to get a prepaid 3G. Until now, this type of perspective among Algerians was not possible in the country. According to observers, there are various reasons that explain this
The first explanation cited is of a ruling class that is overwhelmed by the challenges of a modern, open economy. Indeed, the economic fabric of Algeria, as revealed by Wikileaks cables, follows non-codified rules that divide the economy into zones of influence shared by several generals. The second reason for the delay is related to the security apparatus.
“To popularize 3G is tantamount to endowing people who go underground with a tool for effective communication,” said one former minister.This is an argument dismissed out of hand by a French diplomat who sees in all this debate a sign that the management of the country, nowadays, suffers from a lack of vision and, especially, a lack of ability to be forward looking due to petrodollars on which the power in Algiers rests. Meanwhile, 3G has been announced theoretically to be ready for the first quarter of 2012, provided that by then, nothing occurs that may once again thwart the government’s plans.
Editing by Benjamin Villanti
