Business · South Africa
Why MTN Is Spending R35 Billion to Own Its Towers Again
TechCentral · 2026/02/22
Summary
MTN, one of Africa's largest telecom companies, is spending around R35 billion to bring its cell towers back under its own control. This move involves buying back towers that it had previously sold to outside companies. Andre Wills, the Managing Director at Africa Analysis, says this is a unique decision for MTN and not a sign that the company will start reversing other similar business moves. The buyback allows MTN to better manage its infrastructure and potentially improve its network services. While this is a large investment, it is not expected to become a common trend among telecom firms in Africa anytime soon.
OnABudget takeaway: For consumers, MTN controlling its towers could mean better and more reliable service. Investors should watch how this large purchase affects MTN's finances, while small business owners could benefit from improved mobile connectivity supporting their operations.