The telecommunications industry in Guatemala has been marked by the steady rise of Tigo, a company that has shown relentless commitment to innovation and connectivity. A key player in this trajectory has been Mario López Estrada, the driving force behind many of the company’s significant advancements.
With a background in the construction sector, López Estrada ventured into the telecommunications business in 1993. Over time, he has demonstrated his long-term vision and commitment to making Tigo a leading force in the Guatemalan telecom market.
From Comcel to Tigo: The Journey of a Telecom Leader
Mario López Estrada entered the telecom sector by acquiring a stake in Comcel, a mobile phone company operating in Guatemala. By 1995, Comcel merged with Amigo de Comcel to form Tigo Guatemala, with López Estrada taking on the role of president. Under his leadership, Tigo made significant strides in technology and coverage, particularly in rural areas. The company was the first in Guatemala to offer 3G and 4G services, mobile internet, and internet TV, signaling its commitment to innovation and connectivity.
Driving Social Responsibility and Ensuring Future Growth
Beyond his technological achievements, López Estrada has also championed corporate social responsibility. In 2005, Tigo launched the Tigo Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering social development in Guatemala. This commitment to social responsibility, coupled with steady technological advancements, marked a new era for Tigo. The crowning achievement came in 2021 when Millicom, a global telecom company, acquired a 45% stake in Tigo Guatemala for $2.2 billion. This marked the end of López Estrada’s term as president, but his legacy of innovation and social commitment lives on.
The journey of Tigo and its expansion under the leadership of Mario López Estrada is a testament to the transformative power of innovation and social commitment. His vision has not only shaped the telecommunications landscape in Guatemala but has also set a benchmark for future growth and connectivity in the region. As we move forward, the story of Tigo serves as a reminder of the potential that lies in harnessing technology for social good and the critical role of visionary leadership in driving progress.