MTN launches commercial 5G in Benin, Congo-Brazzaville

MTN Group has launched commercial 5G networks in Benin and the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville).

The pan-African operator said the deployment of 5G technology represents "a significant step in transforming how communities and businesses across Africa connect, innovate and grow."

"5G is more than a technological advancement - it is the foundation for innovation, economic growth, and the creation of new opportunities. We are pleased to support the evolution of a connected, inclusive and prosperous Africa," said MTN Group Chief Technology and Information Officer Mazen Mroue.

Beyond dramatically faster speeds and lower latency, MTN believes that 5G offers new opportunities in education, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture and entrepreneurship.

MTN's 5G footprint in Africa  

MTN's 5G journey began in June 2020, with the first commercial launch in South Africa.

Since then, the pan-African operator has rolled out 5G in Nigeria, Uganda and Zambia, and now Congo-Brazzaville and Benin.

The company also confirmed that 5G trials are underway in South Sudan. 

MTN said it rolled out 2,251 5G sites in 2023. In the first half of 2024, it added another 829 5G sites.

The South African-headquartered company said it was working to secure the spectrum and licenses required to extend its 5G footprint further across Africa.

Related:5G launches in Uganda, Zambia

Titilope Fakuade, MTN Benin chief technology and information officer. (Source: MTN Group)

In January 2024, MTN committed to invest $215 million into infrastructure deployment in Benin over three years.

By the end of June 2024, MTN had 288 million subscribers across 18 markets in Africa and the Middle East.

In August 2024, MTN announced it had sold its business in Guinea-Bissau to Telecel Group and is in the process of selling its operation in Guinea-Conakry.