02 November 2022

MTN is currently building private 5G networks for a total of 14 companies in the mining and ports sectors within South Africa. In addition to providing data and voice services, the 5G private networks will support cloud computing, improved cybersecurity and unified communications.

“We are far ahead of many in terms of private network on the 5G side. We see this as a huge growth area,” said MTN’s CEO Charles Molapisi. “It’s connectivity first; then we put (on) layers of other services. Any form of communication will be deployed. Globally, companies are moving aggressively into this.”

MTN currently delivers 5G coverage to 20% of South Africa’s population and 38 cities, with the aim of reaching 25% by the end of this year.

The company acquired spectrum in the 3.5GHz band during a spectrum auction in March. MTN plans to acquire additional spectrum during the second phase of Icasa’s auction, which is expected to occur once the digital TV migration has been completed.