MTN SA is ramping up investment to modernise existing and deploying new network infrastructure across Limpopo and Mpumalanga. The R820m investment will go toward MTN’s Modernisation of Network South Africa (Monza) Project, as well as expanded rural reach, 5G expansion and restoration of vandalised network infrastructure.
“Our aim is to significantly enhance access and open the door to new digital opportunities for many more people across the province. Our investment is specifically targeted at increasing network coverage, improving throughputs, and connecting the previously unconnected,” said Kagiso Moncho, MTN SA Northern Region’s general manager.
The Monza rollout in the two provinces will include improvement and modernisation of 230 sites, and 76 new sites will be built to add to the existing 1 850. The extension of MTN’s 5G connectivity includes rolling out 58 new sites in 2022 to add to the existing 53.
Another major highlight of the expansion drive will be rural connectivity to help close the digital access gaps in South Africa. According to the GSM Associations 2021 Mobile Economy report, more than 700m people in sub-Saharan Africa remain offline and at risk of exclusion from the emerging digital economy.
“We have extensive plans to drive growth and connectivity solutions into underserviced areas, including Mtititi and Ga-Marishane villages in Jane Furse. With unemployment in South Africa reaching new peaks, it is critical to focus on harnessing digital solutions to drive the recovery, especially in those areas that were hit the hardest,” Moncho added.
“An important point is that the pandemic has underscored the value of mobile networks, which remain the only form of internet access for many. MTN’s investments are directly targeted at accelerating the recovery and significantly enhancing growth and job opportunities,” said Moncho.
One stumbling block to growth remains the activity of criminals and syndicates. Due to high incidences of vandalism and battery theft, MTN has partnered with Bidvest Security and set aside an additional R101m in 2022 to combat these crimes.
“Ensuring users receive quality and network stability is our number-one aim, but the fight against battery theft and vandalism remains a major hindrance. I am pleased that our ongoing efforts to make a dent in these criminal acts are seeing change, but all South Africans are requested to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” said Moncho.
“We have big targets in Limpopo and Mpumalanga this year. Every completed project or success achieved against battery theft, ensures our clients can take that one step forward and benefit from the magic of the modern, connected world,” concluded Moncho.
