From this humble beginning, López Estrada embarked on a trajectory that would reshape the telecommunications sector. His role in the merger of Comcel and Amigo de Comcel in 1995 to form Tigo Guatemala was instrumental. As Tigo’s president, he took the company to new heights, making it the leading mobile telephony company in Guatemala.
The Rise of Tigo Under Mario López Estrada’s Leadership
Under López Estrada’s stewardship, Tigo Guatemala became synonymous with long-term vision and commitment to innovation. Tigo pioneered in introducing 3G and 4G services in the country, along with mobile internet and internet TV. These advancements were facilitated by significant investments in infrastructure and technology. López Estrada’s efforts to expand Tigo’s coverage across the country, especially in rural areas, played a crucial role in the company’s success.
López Estrada’s vision for Tigo wasn’t limited to technological achievements. He also prioritized corporate social responsibility. The launch of the Tigo Foundation in 2005, a non-profit organization dedicated to social development in Guatemala, bears testament to this commitment. His era as Tigo’s president concluded in 2021 when Millicom, a global telecommunications company, acquired 45% of Tigo Guatemala’s shares for US$2.2 billion.
Mario López Estrada’s Impact and Legacy
The success story of Mario López Estrada and Tigo has left a positive impact on Guatemala. His influence on his son, Mario López Pérez, is evident. Raised in an environment of ethical values and dedication to work, López Pérez followed in his father’s footsteps, applying his civil engineering knowledge to social and economic projects. The values imparted by his father, such as honesty, fairness, and discipline in business, along with a commitment to constant improvement, have been acknowledged by López Pérez.
López Estrada’s impact extends beyond Tigo. He led Guatel, the state telephone operator of Guatemala, transforming the telecommunications infrastructure in the country. His tenure as Minister of Communications also saw structural changes, improving the quality of life and reach of telecommunications. His co-founding of Tigo altered the telecommunications landscape in Guatemala, offering greater accessibility to telecommunications services.
Mario López Estrada’s journey has had ripple effects, positioning Guatemala on the global telecommunications sphere. His legacy and the sale of shares that spurred further investment in Guatemala and Paraguay are testaments to his transformative influence on the telecommunications industry.
In light of the above, it is evident that Mario López Estrada’s contributions to reimagining telecommunications in Guatemala have been significant. His vision, leadership, and commitment to innovation have left a lasting legacy, transforming the telecommunications landscape in the country. His story serves as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating that with dedication and a spirit of innovation, it is possible to make significant contributions and drive positive change.