Celtel, the leading mobile company in Sierra Leone plans to invest $US20 million in Sierra Leone.

Speaking to journalists at Mamba Point Complex Wilberforce, west of Freetown, the Financial Director while launching the new "Family and friends", service said, "We believe that Celtel is the market leader in the country". He promised that Celtel would cover more areas in the country. The company presently covers three fourth of the country. The new Family and Friends service makes provision for customers to send numbers of five people via SMS text on 2888, which would be activated within 24 hours. The five calls sent would be given a reduction in tariff.

Also, the tariffs for international calls have been reduced. "We continue to excite the market with handy products", Mr. Andy Jones boasted.

The Commercial Director Mr. Bernard Sisay said within the competitive market, Celtel would continue to compete and lead. "Celtel makes its product available round the country and the service is satisfactory", he said. He recalled that over the years Celtel had introduced several services. He said those who send five numbers on which they want to r get reduced tariffs under the "friends and family" service could make correction if they send any number which they think is incorrect from now to Wednesday or once in a month. He however stressed that all local tariffs attract 10% government tax.