According to CEO Charles Molapisi, MTN South Africa is set to phase out its 3G network by 2027 as it shifts focus towards advancing 4G and 5G technologies. In a recent interview, Molapisi highlighted that while 3G has played an essential role in mobile internet access, it is now deemed an inefficient and costly layer, with the potential for the spectrum to be reallocated for more modern technologies.
Currently, MTN has over 4,000 active 5G sites across the country, covering 44% of the population, with aspirations to increase this coverage to over 60% by 2025. The decision to sunset 3G is motivated by the need for more efficient networks, as maintaining multiple network generations is financially and logistically challenging. Although 2G technology will remain in some areas—primarily for machine-to-machine devices such as security systems and vehicle trackers—MTN plans to limit its usage and focus resources on enhancing 4G and 5G services.
In light of competition from satellite services like Elon Musk’s Starlink, Molapisi expressed that MTN welcomes such technologies, viewing them as complementary rather than competitive. However, he emphasised the necessity for regulatory parity. If satellite providers wish to compete with mobile network operators, they should adhere to the same regulations concerning service quality and customer protocols.
Furthermore, MTN’s Mobile Money (MoMo) platform has grown significantly, with 13 million registered users and a 27.6% revenue increase in the first quarter. The revised MoMo plan facilitates money transfers and includes insurance and payment options, bolstering financial inclusion and aiding small businesses.
In conclusion, MTN’s strategic shift from 3G to 4G and 5G reflects its commitment to providing South Africans with faster and more reliable connectivity while embracing regulatory fairness in the evolving telecommunications landscape.
