Marten Pieters appointed as new MSI CEO

MSI Cellular (MSI), one of Africa's leading telecoms companies, with "Celtel" branded GSM operations throughout the continent, has appointed Marten Pieters, formerly a member of KPN's Executive Board, the Netherlands telecommunications company, as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 August 2003.

Marten Pieters (aged 50) was previously responsible for KPN's IP/Data division, called Business Solutions, and many international activities, which included Board positions on mobile and fixed line companies in emerging and developed economies.

MSI's Executive Chairman, Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim, said today:

"I am delighted Marten is joining us as CEO. He is a very senior telecoms executive with the right combination of international experience and management skills to ensure MSI Cellular becomes Africa's leading telecommunications company."

Marten Pieters, said today:

"In its first five years MSI has made huge strides in developing networks across Africa, aggressively expanding its footprint and customer base.

"Africa is a most exciting growth market for mobile services. I believe there is scope for strong growth of market penetration and I want to make a significant contribution to the development of communications on that continent.

"I look forward to leading MSI through the next stage of its ambitious growth strategy."

For more details, please contact: Martin de Koning, Celtel Corporate Communications Director, +31 23 554 2671 or +31 6558 22409, deKoning.M@celtel.com