MTN Accelerates 5G Rollout With R480m Investment in Free State and Northern Cape Communities
The investment forms part of MTN’s wider national infrastructure strategy unveiled earlier this year during the South African Investment Summit.
MTN has announced a R480 million investment aimed at upgrading and expanding its network infrastructure across the Free State and Northern Cape, with the goal of improving digital connectivity in both provinces.
The Free State is set to receive R300 million of the total investment, while more than R180 million has been allocated to the Northern Cape. According to MTN, the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance network performance and broaden access to dependable connectivity in urban areas, agricultural regions, and historically underserved rural communities.
Planned upgrades will focus on towns and nearby areas including Welkom, Bethlehem, Phuthaditjhaba, and QwaQwa in the Free State, alongside Kimberley, Upington, Kuruman, and De Aar in the Northern Cape. The improvements are expected to strengthen 4G network stability and increase 5G availability, helping residents gain improved access to online learning, digital platforms, and economic opportunities.
The investment forms part of MTN’s wider national infrastructure strategy unveiled earlier this year during the South African Investment Summit. Through the programme, the company plans to extend 5G coverage to 82% of the Free State and 75% of the Northern Cape by 2026, while also enhancing 4G services across both regions.
“By extending our 5G footprint and strengthening network infrastructure in these provinces, especially in rural and farming communities, we are enabling greater inclusion and opening access to opportunities that can improve lives and livelihoods.”
– Isabel Belle, GM of central region operations, MTN South Africa
