BY Daniel Bampoe
MTN Ghana has announced plans to adopt a gradual approach in winding down its 2G and 3G networks, ensuring subscribers have ample time to adjust to newer technologies.
This decision comes as part of the company’s long-term plan to improve spectrum efficiency and enhance network capabilities.
Background
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Blewett, explained that a significant section of customers still depend heavily on 2G and 3G services, with some using these networks to control data usage and others constrained by devices that cannot support 4G.
“Despite the widespread availability of 4G, a lot of our customers are still on 3G. For some, it is about managing their data consumption, while others are constrained by devices that cannot support 4G,” Blewett stated.
Phased Approach
To mitigate potential disruptions, MTN Ghana will implement a phased migration strategy, ensuring minimal impact on customers.
The company aims to provide affordable 4G devices to facilitate a smooth transition.
“We cannot simply switch off 2G and 3G without ensuring that affordable 4G devices are within reach. Doing so would risk excluding a large number of Ghanaians,” Blewett cautioned.
Global Trend
This move aligns with a broader industry trend, as mobile network operators worldwide transition to newer technologies.
In South Africa, for instance, MTN plans to shut down its 3G network by December 31, 2025, and has already begun migrating customers to 4G and 5G networks. Vodacom and Cell C have also announced plans to phase out 2G and 3G services.
Benefits Of Upgrading
The transition to 4G and 5G networks is expected to enhance connectivity, improve data speeds, and support a growing internet economy
According to a report, Africa’s internet economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, driven by a young, tech-savvy population and increasing adoption of digital services.
Device Affordability
To facilitate a seamless transition, device affordability remains a key consideration.
MTN and other operators are working to provide affordable 4G and 5G devices, while governments are exploring options to reduce taxes on entry-level devices.
In South Africa, Minister Solly Malatsi has expressed interest in collaborating with the National Treasury to eliminate ad valorem taxes on low-tier 4G and 5G devices.
