– donates US$5M to relief
Digicel, which lost two of its staff in the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated Haiti on Wednesday, has sent technical experts to assess the situation on the ground to see what support is needed in terms of network equipment and emergency aid.
According to a press release from Digicel, it managed to evacuate 900 employees from its Turgeau building in Port au Prince.
The network was “somewhat damaged” but it is operational, the company said, adding that it is experiencing extensive congestion by the unprecedented number of people trying to contact friends and family in Haiti. It said while its network is up and running people may still have difficulty making and receiving calls.
Meanwhile, Digicel has donated US$5 million to NGOs to support the relief and rebuild effort. Additionally, the company says it will be launching a press, radio and TV campaign for the public to donate to the people of Haiti.
Saying it was “a sad day for Digicel and for the people of Haiti”, Digicel added that it was “deeply shocked and saddened by these terrible losses”. The company extended its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to all of its friends, families and colleagues.
“Clearly we are all deeply upset. This is a very sad day for Digicel and for the people of Haiti and we will do whatever we can to support the desperately needed relief efforts… The people of Haiti welcomed us and made us their own… we are determined to be there for them in their time of need,” the release stated.