Free Senegal, previously known as Tigo Senegal, is the second-largest mobile network operator in Senegal. The company was originally operated by Sentel GSM, a subsidiary of Millicom. In 2018, Tigo Senegal was acquired by the Saga Africa Holdings consortium, which is owned by NJJ, Teyliom Group, and Sofima (Axian Group). Following this acquisition, the company rebranded as Free Senegal in October 2019. As of March 2020, Free Senegal held more than 25% market share with over 4.5 million subscribers. In July 2023, AXIAN Telecom acquired a majority stake in Free Senegal, further solidifying its presence in the Senegalese telecommunications market.
Alias
SAGA
Country
Senegal
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Free Mobile logo

3G Network

Tigo Senegal, before rebranding to Free Senegal, operated a 3G network primarily using the 2100 MHz frequency band since September 2013. The network was part of the broader efforts to improve mobile connectivity in Senegal. However, the coverage was limited, with significant portions of the population, especially outside major cities like Dakar, Saint Louis, Thies, Fatick, Kaolack, Tambacounda, and Diourbel, lacking effective 3G service. As of 2015, Tigo's 3G coverage was only present in 12 of Senegal's 45 administrative departments. There is no specific information indicating whether the 3G network has been shut down, but the focus has shifted towards expanding 4G and 5G services.

Network Frequency Band Status
B1 (2100 MHz)
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 3G Network
Launch

4G Network

Free Senegal acquired a 4G LTE license in 2018, marking a significant upgrade in its service offerings. The company launched its 4G+ LTE-A network, which is marketed as the fastest in Senegal, covering major areas such as Dakar. The network operates on the 800 MHz and 1800 MHz frequency bands. By the end of 2018, the population coverage of 4G in Senegal was about 50%. Free Senegal has been actively expanding its 4G network to improve coverage and service quality, empowering users with better voice and internet packages.

4G Frequency Bands
Network Frequency Band Status Known EARFCNs
B3 (1800 MHz)
Active
1850
B20 (800 MHz)
Active
6400
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 4G Network
Launch

5G Network

Free launched its 5G network in March 2024, a first for the country, following its awarding of 3.5 GHz spectrum in December 2023.

Network Frequency Band Status
n78 (3500 MHz)
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 5G Network
Launch