Mining industry is transformation target
MTN Zambia has launched the first 5G network service in the Republic of Zambia after successful trials that ran for the past 11 months. Zamia’s President Hakainde Hichilema presided over the launch at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre with government ministers, telecoms regulators and central bank CEOs also in attendance. Leading the MTN Group delegation were Chairman Mcebisi Jonas, Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita and Southern and East Africa Vice President Yolanda Cuba, according toa report by Africa Tech analyst Marlene Mutimawase.
“The launch of this ultra-fast communication capacity serves as a clear indication of MTN’s commitment to being a major player in Zambia’s digital economy,” said Jonas. “We look forward to continuing to work together to meaningfully impact the growth and development of Zambia.”
MTN Zambia is the Group’s third operation in Africa, after Nigeria and South Africa where 5G services were now commercially available. “5G can unlock many new use cases and in Zambia, we see great opportunities across many sectors, and in the mining industry in particular,” said Mupita.
According to MTN Zambia CEO Bart Hofker the new 5G services will cover 65% of the population in the cities of Lusaka, Kitwe and Ndola as well as parts of Chingola, Solwezi and Kalumbila, an area which homes roughly 15% of the population. “We plan to reach 100% 5G coverage in Lusaka, Kitwe and Ndola by the middle of 2023, while gradually expanding the 5G network to other locations,” said Hofker, adding that MTN Zambia customers need a 5G-enabled device to connect to the 5G network where it is available.
The introduction of 5G is part of a wider network strategy for MTN Zambia. Other programmes involve the optimisation and modernisation of existing 3G and 4G networks, the building of a fibre ring in Zambia with MTN GlobalConnect, as well as the extension of coverage in more rural areas. “Through our rural connectivity programme, MTN Zambia and its partners plan to use cost-effective coverage alternatives to launch 45 rural sites in 2022 and another 100 in 2023,” said Hofker.