MTN Group, a prominent South African mobile phone company, is actively implementing its "Ambition 2025" strategy by deploying 5G technology across Africa. Notably, MTN has already introduced commercial ultra-broadband in South Africa, Nigeria and Zambia, while pilot phases are underway in other markets.
Recently, MTN Uganda achieved a significant milestone by launching its 5G mobile network, making it the first operator to offer commercial ultra-broadband services in Uganda. This achievement outpaces its direct competitor, Airtel, which plans to launch its commercial 5G services in August.
Currently, MTN's 5G network is accessible in the vicinity of Lugogo Mall in Kampala, the capital city, due to a high concentration of 5G-enabled device users. The company intends to expand coverage in the coming weeks and aims to encompass the entire city by the end of 2024. Furthermore, MTN has ambitious plans to extend 5G coverage to all major cities within the next two years.
The launch of MTN Uganda's 5G network follows the Uganda Communications Commission's (UCC) recent allocation of additional radio frequencies to MTN and Airtel, enabling them to enhance broadband connectivity services and meet the growing demand.
MTN Uganda has been actively exploring ultra-broadband since January 2020, conducting initial tests with support from Chinese company ZTE. In that time , the company has made substantial investments in network modernization to pave the way for the 5G transition. Additionally, MTN has a five-year partnership agreement with Chinese firm Huawei to support its endeavors in this technological advancement.
