10 September 13h00 SAST

Roaming and quality of service.

In my stupidity and after 20+ years as a satisfied Vodacom contract customer I decided to switch to MTN as the Vodacom reception was poor in a weekend destination that we often visited. I took out a 2 year contract for R1500 per month, i travel for business so need roaming - I don't think I'm a trivial customer.

Since taking out the contract at the end of August I've endured endless nightmares.

1. shocking reception at my home in the Cape Town city bowl. So poor that I can seldom make phone calls or attend business conference call - I have to use skypeout to call a local number

2. Roaming: Before I left for the USA I was ensured that my roaming was set up, I checked several times. I checked by dialling *135# all ok. Phone settings ok. I am able to make and receive calls but I cannot get any data to work. I've called the helpline. They seem not to be able to help me - manned by untrained staff. I've written to them and they have responded asking security questions but that email was not answered and thats where the communication stops. Presently i am stranded in the USA on a business trip without any data. I've called Gavin the store manager in Gardens Centre he tells me he is on the case but I still have no data.

I'm on month 1 of a 24 month contract I tried cancelling within 7 days and they said I would have to pay them R24k. At this stage I am seriously considering paying this ******ion. Its amazing how large companies can ride rough shot over consumers.