According to CEO Charles Molapisi, MTN South Africa will gradually phase out its 3G network by 2027.
The company will fully shift its focus to the development of 4G and 5G technologies. Molapisi previously stated that while 3G played an important role in mobile internet in the past, it is now inefficient and costly to maintain.
MTN currently operates more than 4,000 active 5G sites across South Africa, reaching 44% of the population. The company plans to increase this coverage to 60% by the end of the year.
Although 2G technology will remain active in some areas for machine-to-machine communication—such as security systems and vehicle tracking devices—MTN’s core focus will be on expanding and enhancing its 4G and 5G networks.
Molapisi also described Elon Musk’s entry into the telecom market as complementary rather than competitive. He emphasized that satellite services like Starlink could support connectivity efforts rather than pose a threat.
MTN’s strategy to scale down 3G and invest in advanced technologies reflects its commitment to providing South Africans with faster and more reliable connectivity.