MTN invests R700-mil into KZN networks
MTN plans to bring broadband connectivity to previously unconnected parts of the province.
MTN South Africa is investing in the modernisation of existing and deploying new network infrastructure across KwaZulu-Natal.
The R700-million investment, which is in addition to the R500-million invested in 2021, will go toward MTN’s ‘Modernisation of Network South Africa’ (MONZA) project and towards expanding rural reach and 5G, and restoring vandalised network infrastructure.
The KZN investment forms part of plans to modernise the entire MTN network, 68% of which has already been completed nationally, with an additional 1 350 sites to be finalised and around 200 top areas covered across SA by the end of 2022,” said Matthew Khumalo, MTN’s General Manager for KwaZulu-Natal Operations.
The project will increase network coverage and improve throughputs and customer experience in the region, while also enabling broadband reach to many previously unconnected areas in KZN.
The extension of MTN’s 5G connectivity is also planned for KZN, with the province having more than 100 live 5G sites and more planned for 2022.
We currently have over 900 active 5G sites across the country. With the aim of closing the digital access gaps in South Africa, our target is to have 20% of the population covered by 2022.”
In delivering MTN’s 2022 rural objectives, the rollout will bring network and connectivity services to people in the most remote rural settlements of South Africa, and aims have more than 100 rural deployments in highly underserved areas by the end of 2022.
We have very big targets this year. We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders and communities to ensure we reach our goals for 2022, and deliver a superior, reliable network experience to all South Africans. Every successful project completed is a step closer to ensuring our communities are able to access the best that a modern, connected life has to offer.”
A key determinant of the success of the MTN modernisation project however, is the ongoing problem of battery theft and tower vandalism.
While MTN’s heightened security and community collaboration strategy has seen a 50% year-on-year reduction in battery theft, an anticipated R350-million will be spent on the replacement of stolen batteries, infrastructure restoration and security measures in 2022.
This is over and above the R650-million invested in 2021 to replace 2 600 base station batteries.
Our network towers are how we keep our customers connected. If they don’t work, our network doesn’t work. This can have very serious consequences on business operations and in cases of emergencies. MTN urges community members across the country to continue being vigilant and report any incident of vandalism and theft at network towers,” concluded Khumalo.
Information adapted from a release by Leigh-Ann Chetty (Senior Manager: Public Relations for MTN SA) and Mthokozisi Ndlovu (Manager: Communications and Public Relations for MTN SA).
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