MTN transitioning to new generation technology, fixing service interruptions

By D. I. Laary

Koforidua, Sept. 12, GNA – MTN Ghana has announced that it is upgrading its network infrastructure to next-generation technology to boost the provision of services to customers and fix the challenge of recent intermittent service interruptions. 

The migration, which is being rolled out in phases, is expected to enhance the stability and reliability of the telecommunication company network and provide customers with more dependable services. 

Speaking at a media and stakeholder forum in Koforidua, Mr Samuel Duku, MTN Network Manager of Eastern Region, explained that the recent service interruptions were partly due to the company’s major upgrade to its infrastructure and transition to next-generation technology. 

The migration process ongoing for some time now, has not been without its challenges, as customers report issues such as dropped calls, difficulty accessing subscribed features like conference calls, and difficulties with mobile money transactions, as well as interruptions in internet connectivity. 

However, Mr Duku stated that the company was working hard to rectify these challenges and ensure that the services were restored to normal for improved customer experience.  

“We are aware of the challenges our customers are facing, and we are committed to resolving them as quickly as possible,” said.  

Besides that, he also enumerated some systemic problems challenging service delivery, such as fiber cuts caused by road construction activities that have been affecting the provision of uninterrupted service to customers.  

He specifically mentioned the construction of a new bypass in the Osino area of the Eastern Region, but added that despite the challenges, there had been improved collaboration between MTN, highway and urban road authorities and contractors to ensure that construction works were carried out without disrupting fiber optic cables. 

He also pointed out another emerging concern: the construction of fuel stations near roads, particularly where cables are usually located.  

He noted that although these were located outside the trunk roads, they could still cause disruptions when, for example, excavators enter the road and excavate around network infrastructure. 

Similarly, he cited power outages as another challenge but said that measures have been put in place to mitigate this issue, saying: “But this really affected our performance,” he admitted.  

He emphasised that MTN and contractors were working together to reduce fiber cuts and ensure a stable network for customers. 

MTN Ghana also announced its plans to invest heavily in the country’s digital agenda, with 75 per cent of its projects dedicated to Information and Communication Technology-related activities. 

This commitment is aimed at supporting Ghana’s digital transformation initiatives and improving livelihoods in various sectors. 

Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Senior Manager Corporate Communications, said that the MTN Ghana Foundation prioritized digital initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, using technology to drive positive change. 

She said the company’s decision aligned with the nation’s digital agenda and its commitment to leveraging technology to improve lives. 

“We are moving in line with the nation’s digital agenda because we know that the whole world is going digital, and now our commitment is to do 75 per cent of our projects,”  

MTN Ghana has a significant presence in Africa, with over 50 million subscribers across the continent. The company employs more than 17,000 workers, making it one of the largest employers in the region. 

The company’s focus on digital initiatives is expected to have a positive impact on various sectors, including education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.  

With its commitment to leveraging technology for development, MTN Ghana is poised to play a key role in shaping the country’s digital future. 

“We take pride in being at the forefront of delivering a modern digital world,” Mrs. Fiagbenu said. “We will continue to drive the agenda of leading Africa’s digital solutions.” 

MTN’s vision is to enhance its customers’ lives. When network challenges arise, it is a significant concern for everyone.  

Considering this, Mrs. Fiagbenu apologized for the recent issues with the network, saying: “We will continue to invest in technologies to offer better services to our customers.”  

Poetry recitations by some journalists highlighted MoMo as a prime example of innovation that has significantly impacted Ghana’s financial ecosystem. 

This impact has been driven by continuous investment in infrastructure and education, enabling MoMo to flourish and become an essential component of Ghana’s financial framework. 

In addition to the poem recitals, representatives from various media houses delivered five-minute presentations on the topic “The Future of Digitalization: MTN in the Next Five Years.”  

The presentations explored the potential developments and advancements in digital technology that will shape the future of MTN and its impact on the industry. 

GNA