Algers, 13 February 2002 - Orascom Telecom announces the official launch of its mobile network operation in Algeria "Djezzy GSM" for the set date Friday 15th of February 2002. The network launch represents a significant milestone in Orascom Telecom's history as it validates its regional presence serving Middle East North African countries.

Djezzy GSM promises to be a major player in Orascom Telecom's GSM portfolio in terms of revenue, profit and subscribers. Company Chairman Naguib Sawiris states, "We estimate in the first 18 months, Djezzy GSM is expected to garner one million subscribers. This constitutes 25% of the subscriber base of the entire Orascom Telecom portfolio and Djezzy's profitability will have an immediate positive impact on our consolidated financials".

Djezzy GSM, the second GSM operator in Algeria, will provide Algerians with a variety of services, comprehensive billing and international standards in mobile communications. A cornerstone of the Djezzy operations is its philosophy for customer care. The state of the art call center, the first in Algeria, is prepared to deliver outstanding customer service to all Djezzy subscribers.

"We are confident that we will deliver a quality network and stellar customer service, that OTA is in a good position to capitalize on pent-up demand for GSM mobile service," says Company CEO Lionel Coussi.

The network will launch with 50 cell sites covering the entire city of Algers.

In March, Djezzy GSM's service will rollout to Oran, an additional 10 wilayas (governorates) will be covered by August 2002. By year-end 2002, the total number of covered wilayas will be 20 wilayas and Djezzy GSM will have 1500 POS locations across the country. The network equipment is provided by both Alcatel and Siemens. In addition, Djezzy GSM expects to employ 1000 people by year-end 2002 of which 95% is local Algerian talent.

"We have been able to keep the very ambitious time schedule thanks to the strong support of our main suppliers, Alcatel and Siemens. Alcatel, who supplies the equipment for Algiers and its region, has been very reactive to our requirements" says the company Technical Director, Marc Simon.

Orascom Telecom Algeria aims to introduce the latest technology in the telecom sector of Algeria and to have an economic impact in collaboration with the Algerian authorities. Egyptian Ambassador Abdel Moneim A. Seoudi states "the contribution of Djezzy GSM to Algeria can be measured in terms of jobs creation, foreign direct investment, which bolsters currency benefits and indirect job development by small and medium sized enterprises which support the operation." He adds, "Local Algerian's can benefit from Djezzy GSM's presence by improved telecommunications using modern and quality technology."

Orascom Telecom Algeria represents one of Orascom Telecom's largest assets in the company's portfolio. Orascom Telecom Holding S.A.E. is the largest independent telecommunications operator in the Middle East and Africa. The Company operates networks or holds licenses in 20 countries throughout this region including Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Yemen, Pakistan, and 14 African countries.

-Ends-

For More Information in Egypt and Internationally:
Investor Inquiries
Hatim El Gammal
Orascom Telecom Holding
Investor Relations Director
Mobile: +2012 393 3726
hgammal@otelecom.com

For More Information in Algeria
Djezzy GSM
Souheila Battou
Orascom Telecom Algerie
Djezzy Public Relations
Mobile: + 213 61 56 33 32
Office: + 213 21 54 00 53
Souheila.battou@otalgerie.com

© Press Release 2005