Mobile firm basks in the superbrands status glory

VODACOM Tanzania has received the superbrands status in East Africa for the year 2007/2008, the company said in a statement recently. Superbrands, the world's largest independent brand organization recognized the company among outstanding brands in the region when launching the first edition of the Superbrands list in East Africa in Nairobi almost two months ago. The company was represented by Mr Ephraim Mafuru, acting head of the marketing department, who received the status trophy and a certificate on behalf of Vodacom. The list book pays tribute to brands that it considers exceptional through consumer-driven programmes. Speaking after receiving the award, Mr Mafuru said that Superbrand identifies and pays tribute to exceptional brands from all over the world.

Ephraim Mafuru addressing a press conference in Dar es Salaam

A brand qualifying as a superbrand in any country is automatically invited to become a member of an international network and takes part in promotional campaigns in a particular country. "Also, brands with Superbrands status are entitled to use the exclusive Superbrands awards logo on their packaging and advertising as a hallmark of quality. "The company was honoured for its role of being in the forefront of technological product innovation in the country. Since its inception, Vodacom has pioneered products like prepaid and post-paid roaming, SMS, per second billing, credit transfer, content and video calling. One of the brand's biggest achievements and competitive advantage mark was the launch of its 3G HSDPA network in February last year. It was the first mobile telephony operator in East Africa to establish a 3G HSDPA network and the second in Africa after Vodacom South Africa. It was the first network to connect one million customers and currently has more than 4.5 million subscribers. It so far employs more than 50,000 people directly and indirectly across the country, the statement added.