Kathmandu – Ncell, Nepal’s first private GSM mobile service provider, has announced the establishment of the Ncell Foundation to implement corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects. This significant announcement was made as the company celebrated its 19th anniversary, marking nearly two decades of connecting Nepalese through telecommunications.
The Ncell Foundation is committed to contributing at least NPR 200 million towards social causes over the next five years.
Since its inception, Ncell has positively impacted the lives of over 13 million people, directly and indirectly, by supporting various sectors such as health, education, and environmental sustainability. Over these 19 years, the company has contributed more than NPR 2 billion (USD 150 million) toward social causes, according to Jabbor Kayumov, Ncell’s CEO and Managing Director, during the announcement event.
Kayumov emphasized the importance of bringing all of Ncell's social work under one umbrella to amplify its impact. He stated, "We believe in consolidating our good work under one purpose, and that’s why we’ve established the Ncell Foundation"
The foundation's vision aligns with supporting Nepal's inclusive and sustainable development, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its core mission focuses on reducing the digital divide, supporting those in need, and promoting a healthier, more sustainable, and prosperous Nepal.
Ncell's Notable Social Contributions
Ncell has an impressive track record of contributing to social causes in Nepal. After the devastating 2015 earthquake, the company donated NPR 100 million to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund to support affected families. Additionally, Ncell provided NPR 1.6 billion in free services to help customers stay connected with their loved ones during the crisis.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ncell became the first private company to contribute NPR 100 million to the government’s fund for the prevention, control, and treatment of the virus. Furthermore, after the 2022 Jajarkot earthquake, Ncell donated NPR 5 million to support rescue, treatment, and relief efforts, while also aiding the reconstruction of classrooms in 10 schools in the affected region.
In 2014, Ncell provided NPR 200 million to the Prime Minister's Natural Disaster Relief Fund for flood and landslide victims across the country.
Kayumov remarked, "Ncell doesn’t just build towers, provide telecommunications services, or create jobs. With our CSR, we aim to establish ourselves as an exemplary company in Nepal, committed to sustainable and impactful work under the theme of 'We’re Here for You.'"
Recognizing Paralympic Champion Palesha Goverdhan
As part of the event, Palesha Goverdhan, Nepal's first-ever Paralympic medalist, who made history by winning a medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, was honored by Ncell. Kayumov shared how Ncell decided to support Goverdhan's training a year ago as part of their commitment to supporting underrepresented athletes in collaboration with the Paralympic Committee Nepal.
"We met with the Paralympic Committee last year during Ncells anniversary celebration, expressing our desire to support para-athletes. Their disbelief at our offer turned into an incredible partnership, fulfilling a purely social mission," Kayumov explained.
Expanding Social Initiatives with 'Nineteen for Nineteen'
Along with the foundation launch, Ncell announced the 'Nineteen for Nineteen' project. This initiative will implement 19 social projects across Nepal's seven provinces, each receiving NPR 1 million in seed funding. This follows last year’s successful **'Eighteen for Eighteen' initiative, which saw the implementation of projects at the provincial level.
Since its launch on September 17, 2005, initially branded as Mero Mobile, Ncell has revolutionized Nepal's telecommunications sector, providing reliable services and significantly enhancing customer service.
CEO Kayumov concluded by expressing gratitude to Ncell's customers, partners, and regulatory bodies, stating, "This journey would not have been possible without the strong support and trust from our stakeholders. Moving forward, we are dedicated to leading Nepal into a digital future."
As one of Nepal's largest taxpayers, Ncell has paid over NPR 320 billion in taxes and fees to the government since its establishment.
Ncell continues to empower Nepalese businesses by offering the latest communication solutions, ranging from 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile services to wireless mobile broadband, point-to-point connectivity, and cloud and data center services.
Ncell Foundation’s Upcoming Projects
To commemorate its 19th anniversary, the Ncell Foundation will launch various community-driven programs, including tree planting initiatives, distribution of educational materials, health camps, cervical cancer screenings, blood donation programs, and skill camps to empower local communities.
By broadening its social responsibility efforts, the Ncell Foundation aims to impact more lives, fostering growth and development at the grassroots level.
