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Africa’s largest mobile network operator MTN has announced plans to invest over R170 million in efforts to expand its LTE and 5G networks in the Eastern Cape.
MTN says it aims to offer businesses and consumers greater digital access and an improved internet connection by expanding its LTE footprint to almost 93% in the province by the end of the year.
MTN general manager for the Eastern Cape, Gregg Anderson, says the telecoms firm’s investment in the Eastern Cape will, in the short-term, ensure improved connection and data speed in areas that may have had connectivity challenges in the past.
He says the longer-term strategy is to further expand the 5G network to help drive business and job growth in South Africa.
With remote working increasing on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic, MTN general manager for the Eastern Cape, Gregg Anderson, notes that quality network coverage and good internet speeds remain key resources in bridging the digital divide and closing existing digital access gaps in South Africa.
MTN points out that the more than R170 million investment will include the building of new LTE sites in areas such as Joe Gqabi District, OR Tambo District and Amathole District and expanding 5G in Gqeberha and East London.
“This is part of the ongoing investment by MTN and other operators of between R10 billion [and] R20 billion a year into communications infrastructure,” says technology analyst Arthur Goldstuck.
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