Today’s telecom news includes announcements on The Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF), Orange, MasOrange, Turkcell, ZTE, Netas, among others.
Tanzania Unleashes 758 Telecom Towers in Massive Push to Connect the Nation
Tanzania has launched 758 new telecommunications towers alongside expanded fibre infrastructure to strengthen nationwide connectivity and expand digital access, especially in rural and underserved regions. The initiative, implemented through a telecom consortium and overseen by the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF), aims to improve mobile coverage, internet quality, and overall digital inclusion across the country. The rollout is part of a broader government drive to reduce the digital divide and support socio-economic development through reliable communication services. The project also includes fibre network expansion and upgraded infrastructure to enhance service capacity and resilience. Officials say the investment will significantly improve connectivity for millions of citizens, boosting access to education, business opportunities, and public services.
Orange Takes Full Control of MasOrange After EU Green Light in €4.25B Deal
The European Commission has approved French telecom giant Orange’s acquisition of the remaining 50 percent stake in its Spanish joint venture MasOrange, paving the way for full ownership of the operator. The €4.25 billion deal will see Orange buyout private equity partners KKR, Cinven, and Providence through the Lorca holding structure, consolidating control of Spain’s largest telecom operator by customer base. MasOrange was formed from the merger of Orange España and MásMóvil in 2024 and has since become a key growth engine in the Spanish market. Regulators concluded the transaction raises no competition concerns and cleared it under a simplified review process, with the deal expected to close in the first half of 2026 pending final Spanish regulatory approvals.
Turkcell Supercharges Home Internet with 5G + Wi-Fi 7 Superbox Innovation
Turkcell has partnered with ZTE and Netas to develop a next-generation Superbox fixed wireless access (FWA) solution that combines 5G connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 technology to deliver fiber-like broadband speeds without the need for fixed-line infrastructure. The plug-and-play device is designed for homes and offices, enabling fast deployment of high-speed internet over mobile networks. It supports gigabit-level performance, improved network capacity, and seamless connectivity across multiple devices, making it suitable for bandwidth-heavy use cases such as cloud computing, ultra-HD streaming, and smart home applications. Wi-Fi 7 enhances coverage, reduces latency, and ensures stable performance in dense environments with many connected devices. Turkcell views this solution as a key part of its strategy to expand 5G-based broadband access and strengthen next-generation digital connectivity services.
South Africa Hits 1Gbps Mobile Milestone as MTN and Vodacom Redefine 5G Speed Limits
MTN and Vodacom have achieved record-breaking mobile internet speeds exceeding 1Gbps in South Africa during Q1 2026 real-world network testing. MTN recorded a peak of 1.073Gbps in Bellville, Cape Town, while Vodacom reached 1.037Gbps in Randjespark, Midrand, using advanced 5G-enabled smartphones. The nationwide MyBroadband Insights tests, conducted between January and March 2026, showed strong network performance driven by ongoing multi-billion-rand investments in 5G infrastructure and upgrades. Average mobile download speeds in the country reached around 80Mbps, significantly higher than fixed broadband averages. The results highlight how mobile networks are increasingly rivaling fibre services, reflecting rapid improvements in coverage, capacity, and user experience across South Africa’s expanding digital ecosystem.
SHAFANA FAZAL