Ericsson and MTN Group have agreed to modernize the core network infrastructure of MTN’s telecom operators in South Africa and Nigeria over the next five years.
The agreement, aligned with MTN Group’s MTN Unified Cloud Acceleration (MUNA) principles and objectives in order to achieve technological innovation in the region. Ericsson did not reveal financial details of the technology contract with MTN.
The modernization efforts will leverage Ericsson’s cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core, ensuring the readiness of MTN Nigeria’s and MTN South Africa’s network infrastructures to support future 5G standalone capabilities. This initiative aims to deliver innovative solutions for consumers and enterprises while enhancing network performance and efficiency.
Mazen Mroue, MTN Group Chief Technology and Information Officer, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We are embarking on a strategic transformation program to modernize and upgrade our core network infrastructure, signifying a commitment to enhancing network performance and efficiency in respective markets.”
In Nigeria, the network upgrade aligns with national broadband goals and MTN’s strategic objectives, as highlighted by Mohammed Rufai, MTN Nigeria Chief Technical Officer, who emphasized its role in accelerating broadband penetration and supporting the Federal Government’s Broadband plan.
Rami Farah, MTN South Africa Chief Technology Officer, underscored the benefits of the partnership for MTN South Africa’s modernization journey, emphasizing its alignment with MTN Group Unified Cloud Acceleration principles and objectives to support data growth and enable future 5G capabilities.
Hossam Kandeel, Vice President and Head of Global Customer Unit MTN and Customer Unit MTN Africa at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, expressed Ericsson’s dedication to driving technological advancement across the continent.
The MUNA principles and objectives serve as a cornerstone of MTN’s technology strategy, empowering the execution of its Ambition 2025 goals by transforming its network infrastructure into a modern, agile, and cloud-native core network. This transformation aims to enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and deliver innovative services, ultimately improving the customer experience across Africa.
