Mozambique is advancing its telecommunications landscape by rolling out 5G services, joining several African nations in adopting this cutting-edge technology. The country’s telecommunications regulator, the National Institute of Communications of Mozambique (INCM), has granted spectrum licenses to its three mobile operators: Tmcel, Vodacom Mozambique, and Movitel.
Vodacom Mozambique currently leads the market, holding around 52% of mobile subscriptions as of 2025, followed by Movitel with approximately 32% and state-owned Tmcel at about 16%, based on data from the telecom industry association GSMA.
This licensing move coincides with the GSMA’s Mobile Economy Africa 2026 report, which forecasts that by 2030, 21% of mobile connections in Africa will be 5G, translating to around 383 million connections across the continent. This growth is expected to be propelled by enhanced deployment in key markets and an expansion of existing 4G networks.
Public bids for the 5G spectrum in the 700MHz, 2.6GHz, and 3.5GHz frequency bands began on April 17, with these bands selected to optimise coverage, capacity, and service quality.
The initial phase of the 5G rollout will prioritise provincial capitals, major urban centres, industrial zones, and key economic hubs. Notably, coverage will also extend to tourist destinations, national parks, and strategically important areas for economic development.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to fortify telecommunications infrastructure and foster the growth of Mozambique’s digital economy. Until now, the country has predominantly relied on 3G and 4G technologies, making the new spectrum allocations a crucial enhancement for network capacity and data transmission speeds.
INCM chairperson Helena Fernandes emphasised the radio frequency spectrum’s importance as a vital national resource, noting that its allocation entails specific developmental responsibilities. “Radio frequency spectrum is a scarce and strategic resource for national development,” she stated. Operators are expected to fulfil commitments related to network coverage, service quality, infrastructure expansion, and digital inclusion.
Fernandes also highlighted that operators are dedicated to broadening 4G services to enhance broadband access and reduce connectivity disparities between urban and rural regions. “We anticipate that the expansion process will persist, reaching development corridors, border areas, rural zones, and other locations deemed strategic,” she concluded.
