Africa Explores New Ways to Fund 5G Network Expansion
African countries and telecommunications operators are exploring new funding models for 5G networks as rising data consumption increases the need for investment in digital infrastructure.
Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa are pursuing different approaches to expanding network capacity, attracting investment and improving connectivity.
Ghana has recently moved away from relying exclusively on a single wholesale provider for its 5G infrastructure. The country has opened opportunities for mobile operators to acquire spectrum and make more direct investments in their networks.
MTN Ghana secured additional spectrum valued at approximately $202 million, including licenses in the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands. The company said the licenses would support its 5G expansion and improve network capacity and service quality.
The investment comes as African telecom operators face significant funding requirements. Industry estimates from the GSMA indicate that mobile operators across Africa are expected to invest more than $76 billion in network infrastructure between 2024 and 2030.
Nigeria is also facing growing pressure to expand and modernize its telecommunications infrastructure. Data consumption in the country rose by nearly 47 per cent to 1.66 million terabytes in July 2026, compared with 1.13 million terabytes in July 2025, according to figures cited by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The NCC has identified network expansion and modernization as important investment priorities. However, challenges involving electricity, right-of-way approvals, affordability and supporting infrastructure continue to affect deployment.
In South Africa, Vodacom’s Western Cape business plans to invest more than 500 million rand in network infrastructure during the current financial year. The investment includes network modernization and upgrades to more than 50 sites, supporting capacity, 5G capabilities and network resilience.
Telecom operators are also considering infrastructure sharing as a way to reduce costs. Instead of every company building separate towers, fiber networks and other facilities in the same areas, operators can share selected infrastructure while continuing to compete on services and customer experience.
MTN Group executive Ebenezer Asante has argued that shared ownership of critical digital infrastructure could help make network investment more sustainable across Africa.
The funding debate extends beyond 5G coverage. Although mobile broadband networks reach many communities, a significant number of people living within coverage areas still do not use mobile internet, highlighting the importance of affordability and access alongside infrastructure development.
As demand for mobile data, cloud computing and artificial intelligence grows, the ability of African markets to attract investment and make efficient use of existing infrastructure will be important to the expansion of next-generation connectivity.
Source: Reporting by News Central TV, with figures and statements attributed to the GSMA, the Nigerian Communications Commission, MTN Ghana, Vodacom and other cited industry sources.
