MTN plans to invest more than R480 million in network upgrades and expansion projects in the Free State and Northern Cape by 2026, with the company focusing on connectivity improvements in urban and rural areas.
Isabel Belle | image provided
The investment includes R300 million for the Free State and more than R180 million for the Northern Cape as part of MTN’s wider infrastructure expansion plans.
Focus on network expansion
According to MTN, the rollout will prioritize cities such as Welcome, Bethlehem, Phuthaditjhaba and QwaQwa in the Free State, as well as Kimberley, Upington, Kuruman and De Aar in the Northern Cape.
The upgrades are expected to be aimed at improving 4G reliability and expanding 5G coverage in both provinces.
The company said it aims to increase 5G availability to 82% in the Free State and 75% in the Northern Cape by 2026, while strengthening the resilience of existing 4G services.
The investment is part of a wider national infrastructure program announced earlier this year.
Rural areas remain an important focus
A significant portion of the rollout will focus on rural towns and farming communities where access to reliable network coverage remains inconsistent.
Connectivity issues in these areas can impact access to online education, digital services, healthcare platforms and business operations.
MTN said expanding network infrastructure in these communities remains a top priority as demand for digital services outside major urban centers continues to grow.
Economic impact that goes beyond connectivity
The company said the investment could also create opportunities for companies involved in network deployment and related infrastructure projects.
Local service providers participating in network building projects could see more employment opportunities as a result of expansion activities in the two provinces.
The investment comes as telecommunications companies continue to expand network coverage while responding to increasing demand for mobile data and digital access across South Africa.
Commenting on the investment, Isabel Belle, general manager: Central Region Operations at MTN South Africa, said: “By expanding our 5G footprint and strengthening network infrastructure in these provinces, especially in rural and farming communities, we are enabling greater inclusivity and opening up access to opportunities that can improve lives and livelihoods.”
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