MTN South Africa is planning to expand 5G – the fifth-generation wireless network – into Gqeberha and East London. The company said on Tuesday the plans are part of its R170 million investment in the Eastern Cape to offer consumers and businesses greater access to the world of digital opportunity in this important economic hub.
“Our investment in the Eastern Cape will, in the short-term, ensure improved connection and data speed in areas that may have had connectivity challenges in the past while our longer-term strategic intent includes network modernization, network resilience, building new sites and 5G expansion, with the aim of helping to support and drive business and job growth in South Africa,” says Gregg Anderson, MTN General Manager for Eastern Cape
The company recently announced that it has switched on the network in Mpumalanga at eMalahleni (previously Witbank) and Polokwane in Limpopo. For more read: MTN Switches On 5G In Polokwane And eMalahleni
MTN’s recent finalisation of the long-awaited Coastal National Long Distance (NLD) cable project, known in the industry as NLD 5 and NLD 6 has added great capacity in the coastal areas. With the added R170 million investment, improved network reach and stability will accelerate MTN’s footprint in previously disadvantaged communities.
The investment will see MTN building new LTE sites in districts such as Joe Gqabi District, OR Tambo District and Amathole District and expanding 5G in Gqeberha and East London.
“South Africa is the nation with the most developed internet ecosystem in Africa, therefore the country’s long-term success will be based on sustainable and accelerated job creation and the best way to do this is by helping small and medium businesses grow both in urban and rural areas,” says Anderson.
