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Lifhaus sources have revealed breaking news that the Evaluation Committee of Solomon Islands has opted to offer the first mobile phone license to Bemobile operating out of Papua New Guinea.  In a draft press release sighted by Lifhaus sources, the committee offers complimentary "thanks to the other applicants, particularly Digicel, for their participation in the tender process and their interest in Solomon Islands."

bemobile currently provides mobile telecom services in Papua New Guinea. It is supported by its shareholder, US fund GEMS, as well as by Trilogy International Partners. Trilogy International Partners has mobile telecom operations in Bolivia, Dominican Republic, Haiti and New Zealand and recently received the 2009 Award for Corporate Excellence from US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton.

Sources also reveal that there are persistant rumours suggesting that a last minute ditch by the Digicel top shots was unsuccessful.  It is still unclear if Digicel was outbid, refused or lost out on a more lucrative deal put forward by BeMobile.

However, Lifhaus sources also reveal that the announcement was expected because of Solomon Islands strong partnership "especially in the private sector" with Papua New Guinea.  "I think it is the strongest indication yet that the Melanesian block is consolidating itself to be a strong trading partner in the region."

The Evaluation Committee's release also stated that "bemobile’s licence will require it to provide coverage to an increasing percentage of the Solomon Islands population, launching operation within six months, and reaching 81% of the population within 21 months. It has secured these obligations with a US$ 10 million performance bond which will be released in phases as it meets interim coverage requirements."

After much of the fanfare and excitement, it would seem Solomon Islands is one nation unlikely to see Digicel enter it any time soon. A potential customer spoken to indicated that "we have always thought Digicel would come because they were so persistent in their submission and always in the news.  This news is a big surprise."  Lifhaus will bring more news as this saga unfolds.