Lagos, March 27, 2025 – Naija247news
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!MTN South Africa, in partnership with American low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite provider Lynk Global, has successfully conducted Africa’s first satellite-to-mobile phone call. This breakthrough, achieved in Vryburg, North West province of South Africa, demonstrates the potential of satellite technology in closing network coverage gaps, particularly in underserved rural regions.
With Nigeria being one of MTN’s largest markets, experts believe this development could significantly impact mobile network expansion in the country, providing connectivity solutions in remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure remains inadequate.
Africa’s First Satellite Call: A Major Milestone
The call, made using a standard mobile device, marks a significant step in mobile telecommunications. The companies tested voice call quality and SMS capabilities over an LEO satellite connection. Unlike traditional satellite communications that require specialized equipment, this test used an unmodified mobile phone, proving the device-agnostic nature of the technology.
MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi emphasized that the successful trial represents a major advancement in extending coverage beyond existing network infrastructure.
“The technical trial was part of our work to find potential solutions to the challenges of providing coverage in underserviced, rural, and remote areas,” Molapisi said. He added that integrating LEO satellite technology with ground-based cell towers could significantly improve connectivity in hard-to-reach locations.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) approved the use of MTN-licensed spectrum for the trial, allowing the companies to test the feasibility of the technology.
What This Means for Nigeria
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has a mobile connectivity gap affecting over 40 million people, particularly in rural and remote regions. The National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020-2025 aims to achieve 90% broadband penetration by 2025, but challenges such as poor infrastructure and high deployment costs have slowed progress.
MTN Nigeria, a subsidiary of the MTN Group, has been exploring satellite solutions to extend its network reach and improve broadband access. Industry analysts speculate that, following the success in South Africa, MTN could soon conduct a similar satellite trial in Nigeria.
If deployed, this LEO satellite technology could revolutionize mobile connectivity in Nigeria, providing seamless communication where conventional cell towers are impractical.
How LEO Satellites Can Benefit Nigeria
LEO satellites orbit at altitudes between 160 km and 2,000 km, significantly lower than traditional geosynchronous (GEO) satellites, which are positioned at 35,786 km. This lower altitude results in:
• Reduced latency for real-time communication, including calls, video conferencing, and online gaming.
• Direct satellite-to-phone connectivity, eliminating the need for expensive satellite phones or specialized modems.
• Improved emergency response capabilities, allowing mass notifications for weather alerts, health advisories, and disaster relief efforts.
Growing Competition in the Satellite Connectivity Space
MTN is not alone in exploring satellite-based connectivity. In 2023, Vodacom (majority-owned by Vodafone) partnered with Amazon’s Project Kuiper, a LEO satellite project aiming to improve mobile network coverage. Similarly, Nigeria’s telecom operators, including Globacom, are evaluating satellite partnerships to enhance rural connectivity.
MTN’s successful satellite phone call with Lynk Global places it at the forefront of Africa’s satellite mobile network expansion, giving it a competitive edge in future rollouts across the continent, including in Nigeria.
What’s Next? Possible Satellite Trials in Nigeria
With the proof-of-concept in South Africa, MTN Nigeria could soon announce its own satellite trial, aligning with the country’s digital inclusion goals. While no official timeline has been confirmed, a commercial deployment in Nigeria would provide millions with access to reliable mobile services in previously unconnected areas.
Final Thoughts
The successful satellite-to-mobile phone call is a game-changer for Africa’s telecommunications industry. If scaled across Nigeria, it could significantly bridge the digital divide, improve connectivity in rural areas, and support economic growth.
As MTN continues to expand its network solutions, Nigerians may soon benefit from this revolutionary satellite technology, ensuring mobile access for all, regardless of location.
