MTN marks 30 years anniversary with $1.1bn Network expansion to boost connectivity
MTN Ghana has announced plans to invest $1.1 billion in digital infrastructure over the next three years as it celebrates 30 years of operations in the country. Purefmonline.com reports.
The telecommunications company disclosed the investment during a Media and Stakeholder Engagement held at Ridge Condos in Kumasi on Tuesday, July 28, saying the funding will strengthen network infrastructure, expand digital services, enhance Mobile Money operations and prepare the company for commercial 5G deployment.
Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Angela Mensah Poku, revealed that $380 million has been earmarked for investment in 2026 alone as part of the broader programme.
She said the investment demonstrates MTN’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s digital transformation by improving connectivity, increasing network capacity and meeting the growing demand for data and enterprise services.
MTN began operations in Ghana in 1996 as SpaceFon before becoming Areeba and later rebranding to MTN in 2007. Over the past three decades, the company has evolved from a mobile voice service provider into Ghana’s largest telecommunications and digital services operator, serving millions of subscribers across the country.
Its Mobile Money platform has also become one of the key drivers of financial inclusion, providing millions of Ghanaians with access to digital financial services.
Mrs. Mensah Poku noted in an interaction with the Media that MTN continues to make significant contribution to Ghana’s economy through tax payments, employment creation and investments in digital innovation. She explained further that “the company contributes about six per cent of the country’s total tax revenue while supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs through its vendors, Mobile Money agents and business partners.”
She added that MTN recorded strong growth in the first quarter of the year, driven by increased demand for data services, enterprise solutions and mobile financial services.
As part of its 2026 rollout, the company plans to construct about 800 new cell sites across the country to improve network coverage and boost capacity. It will also upgrade its core network to support the commercial rollout of 5G while expanding its Mobile Money infrastructure and digital solutions for micro, small and medium enterprises.
Mrs. Mensah Poku also acknowledged the contribution of the media, particularly journalists in the Ashanti Region, describing them as key partners in MTN’s growth over the past 30 years.
“From our first call in 1996 to today’s 5G trials, you have been our voice in communities, holding us accountable and helping us connect with the people we serve,” she said.
She stressed that feedback from customers, regulators, the media and other stakeholders continues to shape the company’s operations and long term strategy.
Beyond telecommunications, she said MTN will continue investing in environmental sustainability by transitioning more network sites to renewable energy while supporting digital skills training for young people. The company also intends to leverage technology to improve access to healthcare, education and financial services.
“This investment is about building the Ghana we all want, a digitally connected, inclusive and resilient economy,” she said.
The Kumasi engagement forms part of MTN Ghana’s nationwide stakeholder tour to commemorate its 30th anniversary under the theme, “30 Years of Progress, Powered by You.”
Before engaging the media today, the team, paid a courtesy call on the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.
Source: Purefmonlinegh.com || Evans Osei-Bonsu || 2026
