Improving network coverage is good for South Africa and all its people.
Being connected brings access to education, crime-fighting, and healthcare services, and drives the economy and social development.
MTN is committed to making a difference by broadening this access for more people.
This is why MTN invests in South Africa’s digital infrastructure and supports local communities everywhere.
According to the MyBroadband Mobile Network Quality Report for Q3 2024, MTN was recognised as having the best overall network in South Africa.
This recognition, alongside the prestigious “Best In Test” certification awarded to MTN by umlaut, an independent global benchmarking organisation, highlighted their ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier connectivity and continuously improving network quality nationwide.
The successful deployment of advanced network infrastructure in the Eastern Cape is an excellent example of this commitment.
This year, users in the Eastern Cape have benefited from added capacity and improved customer experience, with MTN aiming to connect even more areas next year.
MTN say they are significantly improving connectivity while addressing critical community concerns so that people in this area can enjoy the benefits of the connected world.
They report network availability in the Eastern Cape – stretching all the way from Mthatha towards Storms Rivier – is at an average of 97%.
MTN have modernised more than 900 sites with new sites and upgrades boosting capacity in various areas, including Mthatha, Lusikisiki, Motherwell, Zwide, Ibhayi and Kwazakhele.
In the past two years, various areas have benefited from the rollout of new mobile broadband coverage through the deployment of new infrastructure, including Cold Stream, Ncora Flats, Kuntaka (near Ngcobo), and Mbukuqweni.
MTN are also extremely proud that areas which had no 4G coverage before, like the settlement of Oviston (on the bank of the Gariep Dam), now have access to the benefits of faster and higher-quality connectivity.
The University of Fort Hare also underwent a significant capacity upgrade, significantly improving user experiences and unlocking the benefits of the digital world.
MTN’s network dominated the rankings across most major metropolitan areas, including Nelson Mandela Bay, where it achieved the best LTE and 5G scores.
The initiatives in the province align with MTN’s mission to drive digital inclusion and contribute to the socio-economic development of the regions it serves.
Modernisation has included rolling out their 4G and 5G solutions, with 96% of their sites now being 4G active, and 20% 5G active.
MTN’s investment across South Africa underscores their commitment to enhancing connectivity and addressing pressing issues like lack of access to the digital economy.
The deployment of their network ensures proactive steps have been taken to foster a safer, more connected environment, where more people benefit.
MTN is committed to making a difference by ensuring everyone has access to the digital world.
Despite the positives, illegal connections, vandalism, and battery theft remain challenging.
MTN reported 277 cases of battery theft in the reporting period. Long power outages in Mthatha, Queenstown, and severe theft around East London have impacted coverage, but MTN have been providing replacements to keep the inconvenience to a minimum.
Criminals have persistently taken advantage of the cover of darkness to carry out their activities, but their collective fightback, supported by the local communities, has been resilient.
They urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.
• To report suspicious behaviour, send an email to anonymous@tipoffs.com or call 083 123 7867 or visit https://www.mtn.co.za for more information.
