• MTN and ZTE have launched a quad-band Massive-MIMO pilot site in Cape Town and introduced a five-band Ultra-Broadband Radio, enhancing signal strength, speed, and reliability.
• At Hout Bay Port, the companies piloted a 5G-Advanced system that combines connectivity with environmental sensing, enabling accurate vessel tracking and marine ecosystem monitoring.
• These innovations support South Africa’s fast-growing 5G market—projected to exceed 10% of mobile connections by 2025 and 40% by 2030.

MTN South Africa and ZTE Corporation announced on November 25 three major innovations that will transform network performance and customer experience. These include a quad-band Massive-MIMO pilot site in Cape Town, a five-band Ultra-Broadband Radio, and a 5G-Advanced Integrated Sensing and Communication pilot for marine eco-protection.

Each of these innovations is already being implemented. The pilot site was launched at Cape Town’s Waterfront, which brings stronger signals, faster internet, and more reliable service—especially in busy areas. This site supports everything from basic calls and texts to high-speed 5G and smart devices. The two parties also introduced a radio unit that combines multiple signal types into one compact system. This makes it easier and more efficient to set up and run mobile networks, improving coverage and call quality, even in remote areas.

At Hout Bay Port, the two companies tested a new 5G-based system that not only provides fast internet but also helps monitor the environment. "MTN and ZTE will continue to extend the power of connectivity to education, healthcare, and environmental protection," said Rami Farah, Chief Technology Officer of MTN South Africa.

These innovations cater to South Africa’s rapidly growing 5G market. According to the GSMA’s 5G in Africa 2025: Market Status, Trends and Outlook, South Africa ranks among the top 12 African markets for 5G connections, with adoption expected to exceed 10% of total mobile connections by 2025 and projected to surpass 40% by 2030.

The innovations position MTN to maintain competitiveness in South Africa's dynamic telecom landscape while addressing operational efficiency and creating new revenue opportunities beyond traditional connectivity services, essential strategies as South Africa's telecom market matures and competition intensifies.

Hikmatu Bilali