Linkstone Capital was retained by the Government of Mali to advise it in the privatization of Société des Télécommunications du Mali (« SOTELMA »), the country’s national operator.

Linkstone Capital advised the Government on the privatisation strategy and on the management of the competitive tender process.

Four bidders submitted offers, Maroc Telecom, Portugal Telecom, TelecelGlobe and Expresso Telecom. Maroc Telecom submitted the highest bid at Euros 250 millions.

The deal closed in July 2009 at a total consideration of Euros 275 millions for a 51% stake.