Telecom giant MTN is actively engaging with satellite providers, including Elon Musk’s Starlink, as part of a strategic initiative to extend its network coverage to 95% of the population across its operating countries. Despite improvements in internet connectivity over the past decade, rural areas and regions outside major urban centers still face limitations. The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) notes a reduction in the coverage gap from 50% in 2014 to 17% in 2022 in sub-Saharan Africa.
MTN’s Chief Technology and Information Officer, Mazen Mroué, outlined the company’s approach, emphasizing two complementary Low Earth Orbit (LEO)-based solutions to enhance network coverage. Traditional satellite technology faces challenges such as latency and limited bandwidth, making fiber and mobile connectivity more favorable. LEO satellites, positioned closer to the ground, offer faster speeds and have become a preferred solution to address coverage gaps.
However, launching a network of LEO satellites, like Starlink or OneWeb, incurs a substantial cost of around $5 billion compared to $500 million for traditional high-altitude satellites. In response, MTN collaborates with specialist satellite providers, including Starlink, to navigate these challenges and enhance connectivity.
MTN’s strategy involves two key components. The first focuses on direct-to-cell trials, enabling mobile devices to communicate with satellites alongside cellular towers. The second component leverages LEO satellites to provide fixed connectivity for enterprise customers and efficient backhaul connectivity for MTN cellular sites, particularly in remote areas.
The company aims to achieve 95% broadband population coverage across its footprint by 2025, up from 88% in 2022. Initiatives are underway, including direct-to-cell trials with Lynk Global in South Africa and Ghana. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with providers like AST SpaceMobile and SpaceX’s Starlink for trials in Nigeria, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Nigeria.
Despite Starlink not yet applying for a license in South Africa, telecom operators are proactively exploring partnerships and technologies incorporating low altitude satellites to address connectivity challenges. Vodacom, a key player, has joined forces with Project Kuiper, Amazon’s LEO communications initiative, to extend 4G and 5G services in Europe and Africa. These developments highlight the telecom industry’s commitment to leveraging innovative solutions, including LEO satellites, to bridge coverage gaps and enhance connectivity in both urban and remote areas.
