MTN Zambia launched 5G Network reaching 15% population

MTN Zambia launched on 24 November, 5G network, becoming the first mobile operator in Zambia to offer 5G services commercially after successfully undertaking trials of the transformative technology over the past 11 months.

CEO Bart Hofker said 5G services had been activated to cover 15 percent of the population , which represents about 65 percent of the population in the cities of Lusaka, Kitwe and Ndola as well as parts of Chingola, Solwezi and Kalumbila.

Hofker said that MTN Zambia plans to reach 100 percent 5G coverage in Lusaka, Kitwe and Ndola by the middle of 2023, while gradually expanding the 5G network to other locations. He pointed out that MTN Zambia customers need a 5G-enabled device to connect to the new network where it is available.

The Zambian regulator ZICTA, pushed forward the release dates for the spectrum bands, with the spectrum in the 700MHz band (703-733MHz paired with 758-788MHz) initially  scheduled for release  in the first quarter of 2023 being rolled out in the third quarter of 2022, while the  remaining lot of 40MHz of spectrum in the 2600MHz band (2550 to 2590MHz) was also  released in the third quarter of 2022.

ZICTA further clarified that the spectrum in the 26 GHz band will be open for assignment on a first-come, first-served basis in the fourth quarter of 2022.

The introduction of 5G is part of a wider network strategy for MTN Zambia. Other programmes involve the optimisation and modernisation 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.