MTN, one of South Africa’s leading telecommunications companies, has announced a significant investment of R480 million to enhance cellular infrastructure across KwaZulu-Natal. This initiative is crucial for a province grappling with widespread poverty, as MTN aims to expand its coverage and reinforce signal strength, particularly in underserved areas.
As part of this investment, MTN plans to modernise its network infrastructure, which includes building 25 new sites, upgrading 90 existing ones, enhancing capacity at 120 sites, and improving transmission capabilities at more than 80 sites. The areas targeted for upgrades include Mpofana, Weenen, Bovini, Nkapha, Nkambele, Kwantabomvu, and Lokwe.
Currently, MTN boasts an impressive 4G coverage of 97% across KwaZulu-Natal, and this expansion will primarily benefit rural communities and townships. In addition, the rollout will enhance access to MTN’s high-speed 5G network in urban and larger towns. Residents in villages like Mpendle have already experienced improved connectivity thanks to recent 4G enhancements.
During the announcement, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli highlighted the region’s importance for MTN’s growth and emphasised the company’s commitment to narrowing the digital divide. Busi Dlamini, General Manager for MTN South Africa in the province, reiterated the goal of ensuring all South Africans can participate in the digital revolution.
MTN is also focused on making smart technology accessible, aiming to distribute R99 smartphones to 1.2 million South Africans. Their MoMo services are designed to provide affordable and efficient mobile money solutions, creating pathways for financial empowerment.
Additionally, MTN has recently introduced MoMo Pay, enabling entrepreneurs to accept payments directly through the MoMo app on their smartphones. This innovation supports spaza shop owners by allowing them to sell products and earn commissions, unlocking economic opportunities within the informal market, where MTN aims to capitalise on a 0.5% transaction fee.
