Ncell celebrates 19 years of service in Nepal;  launches foundation to drive CSR initiatives

KATHMANDU: Ncell, Nepal's first private-sector GSM mobile service provider, marked nearly two decades of service on Tuesday with a significant announcement: the establishment of the Ncell Foundation to oversee and drive all of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

During a special event commemorating the company's 19th anniversary, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Jabbor Kayumov highlighted Ncell's extensive contributions over the past 19 years. "Ncell has invested over Rs 2 billion ($15 million) in CSR activities across various sectors such as health, education, and the environment, impacting over 13 million lives both directly and indirectly. We now believe it is crucial to consolidate all our efforts under one umbrella, the Ncell Foundation," Kayumov stated.

The Foundation aims to foster a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable Nepal, contributing to the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) with three primary objectives: supporting those in need, bridging the digital divide, and promoting a healthier, more sustainable Nepal.

Ncell has a commendable history of supporting high-impact causes. In the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake, Ncell donated Rs 100 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund and provided Rs 1.6 billion worth of communication support to help families stay connected. During the Covid 19 pandemic, Ncell contributed Rs 100 million to aid the government's procurement of protective gear and PCR testing kits. Following last year's earthquake in Jajarkot, Ncell provided Rs 5 million for rescue, treatment, and relief efforts, and helped build classrooms in 10 government schools.

In 2014, Ncell supported the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund with Rs 200 million to assist flood and landslide victims across the country. At the anniversary event, the Ncell Foundation pledged to contribute at least Rs 200 million to social causes over the next five years.

"Ncell is not just about erecting towers and connecting people or providing jobs; we are also stewards of society, aiming to be a trailblazer in CSR in Nepal, making a lasting impact and delivering on our motto, 'Here for You,'" Kayumov said.

The event concluded with Ncell honouring para-athlete Palesha Goverdhan, who recently made history by winning Nepal's first-ever medal at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Kayumov recounted how Ncell decided to support Goverdhan last year. "I vividly remember the moment we contacted the Paralympic Committee to offer our support. They were astonished. It didn't make PR or business sense, but we wanted to support those who need it the most — the unseen or unsung heroes," he said.

Aligned with its brand promise, 'Today. Tomorrow. Together.', Ncell aims to enhance its efforts through meaningful social initiatives, connecting with local communities and addressing grassroots-level issues. A new initiative, '19 for 19', was also announced, which will provide financial support of Rs 1 million each to 19 social projects across the country's seven provinces. Additionally, projects under the '18 for 18' initiative, launched last year on Ncell's 18th anniversary, are currently being implemented.

On this day in 2005, Ncell began its mission to connect Nepal and its people. Since then, it has transformed the telecommunications industry by making essential communication services more accessible, reliable, and affordable. "Our journey would not have been possible without the trust and support of our valued customers, partners, and key stakeholders, including government authorities, regulators, and the communities we serve. We are committed to many more years of togetherness as we support Nepal's journey towards a digital future," said Kayumov.

As one of Nepal's largest taxpayers, Ncell has contributed over Rs 320 billion in taxes and fees since its inception, significantly bolstering the country's economy.

Starting with basic mobile services and evolving into innovative communication solutions, Ncell has met various consumer needs. From basic 2G to modern 4G, from standard wireless mobile broadband to point-to-point leased line global connectivity, and from mobility to advanced cloud and data-centre co-location services, Ncell has grown into a modern telecommunications company.

To celebrate its 19th anniversary, Ncell has planned numerous activities and events, including tree plantations, educational kit distributions in government and community-run schools, health camps, cervical cancer screenings, blood donation drives, skill camps, and market visits to engage with and thank customers and retailers.