Ncell, Nepal’s first private GSM mobile service provider, is celebrating its 20th year and marking its 19th anniversary with the launch of the Ncell Foundation. The foundation will focus on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, committing Rs 200 million over the next five years to enhance connectivity, bridge the digital divide, and improve access to education, health, and environmental resources for Nepalis.
According to Jabbor Kayumov, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Ncell, the company has positively impacted the lives of over 13 million people in its first 19 years, contributing more than Rs 2 billion to various social causes, including health and education. He emphasized the importance of consolidating these efforts under the Ncell Foundation to create a more inclusive and sustainable Nepal.
Ncell’s commitment to CSR is well-established. Following the 2015 earthquake, the company provided Rs 1.6 billion in free services to help victims stay connected and contributed Rs 100 million to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ncell was the first private company to donate Rs 10 million to the government’s relief fund.
The foundation’s new ‘Nineteen for Nineteen’ project will support 19 social initiatives across all seven provinces, with each project receiving Rs 1 million. This initiative builds on last year’s ‘Eighteen for Eighteen’ program, which focused on provincial social projects.
Since its inception on September 17, 2005, Ncell has transformed Nepal’s telecommunications sector, expanding from basic mobile services to mobile broadband and cloud solutions, significantly contributing to the country’s economic and social development. Kayumov expressed gratitude to customers, partners, and regulatory bodies for their support, asserting Ncell’s commitment to leading Nepal towards a digital future.
As one of Nepal’s largest taxpayers, Ncell has contributed over Rs 320 billion in taxes and fees to the government, underscoring its role in supporting the nation’s economy. To celebrate its anniversary, the Ncell Foundation will conduct various community outreach programs, including tree planting, educational material distribution, health camps, and blood donation drives.
Additionally, Ncell honored para-athlete Palesha Goverdhan for winning Nepal’s first-ever medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, highlighting the company’s dedication to supporting Nepali talent. With the launch of its new initiatives and brand slogan, “Aaja Bholi Sadhai Sangai,” Ncell aims to expand its social impact and continue supporting communities throughout Nepal.
