MTN, China Telecom, and Huawei have signed an agreement to deploy a cutting-edge 5G private network for a leading manganese mining company in South Africa’s Northern Cape.
This transformative project is poised to enhance mining operations with unparalleled connectivity and digital solutions, marking a major milestone in Africa’s industrial digitalization journey.
The agreement follows a memorandum of understanding signed at AfricaCom last year, aimed at introducing advanced digital ICT solutions to industries across the continent. This collaboration establishes Africa’s largest 5G private network in the mining sector, setting a benchmark for smart mining practices.
Transforming Mining Operations
The 5G private network is set to revolutionize the mine’s operations by enhancing productivity, safety, and sustainability. With ultra-reliable, high-speed connectivity, the network will enable applications such as personnel surveillance, vehicle tracking, and unmanned trucks. These innovations are designed to improve workplace safety and operational efficiency.
Beyond operational benefits, the 5G-enabled smart mine aligns with global sustainability goals by promoting greener mining practices. By optimizing energy consumption and resource management, the technology positions the mine as a leader in sustainable mining and complies with international environmental standards.
Collaboration Driving 5GtoB Ecosystem
This project represents a significant step forward in the 5G-to-Business (5GtoB) ecosystem. Each partner has contributed unique expertise:
Huawei: Delivered an end-to-end 5G private network tailored to meet the specific demands of mining operations.
MTN: Leveraged its robust infrastructure and expertise in network integration and operations.
China Telecom: Provided advanced system integration and innovative digital solutions, drawing on its global experience in vertical industries.
This groundbreaking partnership demonstrates the potential of 5G technology to drive industrial transformation in Africa, paving the way for smarter, safer, and more sustainable mining operations. It also underscores the growing role of digital technologies in improving resource management and addressing global supply chain challenges.
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Industry Leaders Highlight Project’s Impact
Reed Zhang, Managing Director of China Telecom South Africa, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation: “This project showcases China Telecom’s leadership in strategic technologies like cloud computing, AI, big data, and next-generation ICT. These innovations empower Africa’s largest 5G-enabled smart mine and drive the intelligent transformation of the mining industry.”
Sudipto Moitra, General Manager of MTN ICT Converged Solutions, highlighted 5G’s transformative potential: “5G is not just about faster connectivity; it’s a catalyst for transforming industries. Our collaboration with Huawei and China Telecom demonstrates the power of partnerships in unlocking new technological possibilities and driving Africa’s digital transformation.”
Expanding 5G Across Industries and Borders
Building on its strategic partnership with Huawei, MTN is rapidly expanding its 5G private network business across diverse industries, including mining, oil and gas, ports, manufacturing, and education. The company is also extending its 5G presence to additional countries, such as Nigeria, Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon, fostering industrial digital transformation across the continent.
This collaboration underscores the transformative power of 5G in reshaping industries, advancing sustainability, and driving economic growth in Africa.