MTN South Africa has announced a bold plan to offer 1.2 million of its prepaid customers
4G-enabled smartphones for just 99 rand (about $5.42), aiming to drive digital inclusion as the country moves toward shutting down 2G and 3G networks.
The rollout will occur in three phases, starting this May and continuing through 2026. In phase one, 5,000 carefully selected users in Gauteng province will receive the discounted phones based on criteria like usage patterns, spending habits, and customer tenure. Phase two will expand the offering to over 130,000 customers nationwide, followed by a third phase covering more than 1.1 million users.
The initiative comes ahead of South Africa’s scheduled deactivation of 2G and 3G networks by December 31, 2027, a move intended to free up bandwidth for faster 4G LTE and 5G services. However, concerns have been raised about potential digital exclusion among lower-income and rural users who may not afford newer smartphones.
Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa, emphasized the company's commitment: “As South Africa advances into the 4G and 5G era, MTN is ensuring no one is left behind. We are taking proactive steps to connect even the most vulnerable communities.”
MTN, which serves 39.8 million customers in the country 29.9 million of whom are on prepaid plans—will offer a range of devices under this program. In the initial phase, the Itel 5.5-inch smartphone, typically priced at 740 rand, will be distributed. Later phases will include devices ranging between 800 and 1,100 rand.
Operational costs for the initiative, including logistics, customer service, marketing, and incentives, are estimated between 150 and 190 rand per device, according to the telecom giant.
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