MTN Ghana accelerates network upgrade — Completes 98% in 2 months

MTN Ghana is close to completing its extensive network upgrade project which started in June this year, with 98 per cent of the project so far completed, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett has said.

The upgrade involves replacing existing mobile network infrastructure with more efficient and environmentally friendly equipment. 

When completed, he said this would enhance the company network capacity to the benefit of all Ghanaians.

At the Ghana Stock Exchange’s (GSE) 'Facts Behind the Figures' series, which featured MTN, the CEO said work on the project was expected to be completed within five months, adding that this may cause minor disruptions to network performance. 

However, he encouraged Ghanaians to focus on the positive outcomes of the modernisation process, as the upgraded systems and equipment would ultimately enhance network efficiency in Ghana.

"We are undergoing a major modernisation effort in Greater Accra, replacing outdated equipment with brand new machines to enhance the efficiency of our operations. 

These new machines have advanced capabilities, allowing us to maximize capacity within the same spectrum. This is where our investment is focused,” he stated.

He said although the project was initially expected to be completed in five months, the company has put in much efforts to complete 98 per cent of the work within two months.

“The modernisation process will take around five months in total, but due to the urgency, we’ve completed 98% of the work within two months and are nearing the finish line.

While the upgrades are underway, there may be some disruptions in our network. However, this is all part of improving the speed and quality of service. Looking ahead, we plan to invest over $1 billion in our network in the coming years." he said.
 

High cost of data 

Responding to concerns about the high cost of data, he urged Ghanaians to consider the benchmarks for providing internet data and the associated costs, and to compare these with other African countries. 

He emphasised that Ghana’s internet data remains among the most affordable in Africa.

"I encourage Ghanaians to compare internet data costs across Africa. There is sometimes a perception that data in Ghana is more expensive than in other African countries, but our prices are relative to the costs we incur. 

“We must consider global benchmarks and our production costs. Part of this involves improving our data services, enhancing our network, and investing in new technologies to ensure everything functions properly,” he said.

He further explained that the recent rise in data costs was due to the rise in the cost of providing internet services. 

He urged people to stop believing that the government deliberately increased data prices to collect more taxes.

"The high cost of network services is not due to the government, but rather comes from the various operational expenses that networks face, such as electricity and data production costs. 

There are multiple layers involved in running a network. It's not just a single cost, but several factors that drive up expenses. However, as a business, we are constantly working to keep costs as low and efficient as possible,” he said.