Multinational telecommunications company MTN has deepened its expansion of 5G internet service in Africa, with its recent launch in Zambia.
Following its launch in Zambia, it has become the first telecoms operator in the South-Central African country to offer 5G services commercially, following its 5G trials over the past 11 months.
The 5G internet service will cover about 15% of the country’s population, while also covering about 65% of the population in cities such as Ndola, Chingola, Solwezi, Kalumbila, Kitwe, and the capital Lusaka.
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The Launch of the 5G network which took place at Mulungushi International Conference Centre was presided over by the President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema.
The occasion also had in attendance several Zambian government ministers and representatives of the sector regulator and central bank.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, MTN Zambia CEO Bart Hofker said, “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,” he said, 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 programs include the optimization and modernization 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.
MTN’s launch of the 5G network in Zambia is coming after it launched the service in South Africa and Nigeria respectively.
The company seeks to improve the communication of its users by providing them with higher internet speed and lower latency than its predecessors, assuring them that there will be less time wasted on sending and receiving information on the web.
It also focuses on allowing its customers to connect faster than ever, with its high internet speed that makes downloads faster and digitization more seamless.
MTN is the largest mobile network in Africa, in terms of indigenous networks, with a subscriber base of 152.3 million. The company employs 17,509 workers and operates in 21 African countries. Despite its remarkable achievements in the telecoms sector, the company is in no way resting on its oars as it constantly seeks to improve its services.