Competition is intensifying amongst mobile operators as the government gets set to kick off its cellular market liberalization process.

With a bid launch for a second cellular licence imminent, Junkanoo Mobile is the latest company looking to secure approval from policy makers and ultimately become the newest mobile carrier in The Bahamas, moving the sector from a monopoly to a duopoly.

Describing the telecom start-up as Bahamian company led by qualified industry experts, Junkanoo Mobile spokesperson Franklyn Winder said members of its six-strong executive team possess global experience and exposure.

Mr Winder spent 28 years with a telephone company, holding various positions in senior management. A recognized leader in his field, he holds a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) Degree.

"Junkanoo Mobile has engaged one of the world's leading manufacturer in the mobile and telecoms industry to customize, design and build a premium network," said Mr Winder in his first communication to the media.

"This network will be a quantum leap from what is now being experience by the Bahamian community. Consumers could expect to see fewer drop calls, lower prices and far better technology."

In her address to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) conference in South Korea last month, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson reaffirmed the government's commitment to go to tender for a second cellular licence.

"It is recognised that competition is the most effective method to obtain world class service at affordable prices," Mrs Maynard-Gibson said at the time.

"The liberalisation process is ongoing, and the government will imminently invite interested persons or entities to apply for the appropriate licences to operate cellular mobile networks in The Bahamas."

Junkanoo Mobile is, at least, the third company to publicly voice its intentions.

"Junkanoo Mobile partners are equipped with a sound, intimate understanding of the market," said Mr Winder. "We are confident that we have the perfect mix of services, prices and network quality that will far surpass expectations."

Junkanoo Mobile said it has access to the necessary funding. Although Mr Winder declined to disclose any further details about the company's assets, he divulged that strategic financial partners were lined up and "eager" to collaborate on the "historic undertaking."

"Everything hinges on us gaining the license from government," said Mr Winder.

In fact, first level designs of the entire Bahamas Network have been completed, he said.

"We await the government issued requirement to fully complete designs," said Mr Winder. "We will be able to fully roll out the latest version of the LTE (long term evolution) technology within a short period of time, bringing to The Bahamas the latest technology."

Mr Winder said the company stands ready to help transition The Bahamas to a full-fledged e-commerce society.