Huawei Technologies hands over Enhanced Data Network – 3.5G to MTN

MTN Investment in Network Technology to lower usage rates and offer high quality connectivity and speed.    Kampala, Uganda – MTN Uganda on Tuesday received an enhanced data network from Huawei Technologies to complement its existing infrastructure, aimed at increasing data connectivity in Uganda at lower prices. At a ceremony held at the Serena Kampala International Conference Centre, MTN Uganda CEO Themba Khumalo and Huawei Technologies Managing Director Samuel Chen signed an acceptance agreement officially handing over the network over to MTN Uganda for use.
MTN CEO Themba Khumalo and VP Huawei Technologies exchange documents after signing of the Network Hand Over of the New MTN 3.5G Platform MTN CEO Themba Khumalo and VP Huawei Technologies exchange documents after signing of the Network Hand Over of the New MTN 3.5G Platform

In October last year, MTN Uganda secured a landmark US$100million financing facility from eleven commercial banks in Uganda, which was used for no network investments which amounted to US$ 125 million. MTN Uganda has since inception invested US$680million towards its extensive network.
“This is of supreme significance to Uganda as a nation, and specifically to our customers. This network will complement the existing network to provide enhanced data services for our customers.

Khumalo said MTN had invested heavily across the continent in underwater cables for better data connectivity to benefit its customers all over Africa. MTN is utilising capacity on the TEAMS (The East African Marine System) cable, and has invested heavily in the EASSy (The East African Submarine Cable System).

“With this level of investment, MTN is well positioned to be the leading player in the data market and make data more affordable and accessible for the common man in Uganda”, he said.

Huawei Technologies Vice President David Duan said he was proud of having accomplished the handover in only seven months.

“At Huawei globally we pride ourselves on the quality of our work, and we are always proud to work with equally reputable partners such as MTN. Part of our deliverable was capacity transfer, which we believe we have achieved in working together with MTN here in Uganda,” he said.

The improved network will support better data speeds and connectivity and provide benefits to large, small and medium enterprises in Uganda.

Khumalo said providing the best possible data network was part of MTN Uganda’s responsibility as a good corporate citizen.