by MTN South Africa has announced it will shut down its 3G network by December 31, 2025. This move accelerates the phase-out schedule by a full year from the previous plan.
The decision follows a successful pilot migration project in Cape Town, where MTN tested transitioning users from 3G to faster 4G and 5G services.
MTN South Africa’s 3G Shutdown Plan
The pilot covered areas including Durbanville, Greater Melkbosstrand, Milnerton, and Bloubergstrand. Encouraged by the smooth migration, MTN is confident the full rollout will enhance customer experience with more reliable and faster connectivity. The transition will happen in carefully planned stages to minimize disruption, though some short-term impact is expected.
This shutdown aligns with directives from South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), which aims to eliminate both 2G and 3G networks to free up spectrum for advanced technologies.
The government has extended the final shutdown deadline for 2G and 3G networks to December 31, 2027, but MTN is moving ahead with its 3G closure earlier.
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Vodacom and Telkom’s Network Phase-Out Plans
Vodacom South Africa also plans to shut down its 3G and 2G networks soon, although a formal announcement has not been made. The company supports a managed, industry-led timeline to migrate users from legacy devices to 4G and 5G technology. Vodacom estimates millions of 2G and 3G devices still operate on its network.
Telkom has already discontinued most of its 2G services and is preparing to cut off 3G networks.
Like MTN and Vodacom, Telkom is working to ensure a smooth transition for its customers, especially those using machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices that rely on older networks.
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Government and Industry Collaboration
The Communications Minister and ICASA are conducting an economic impact assessment to ensure the shutdown does not adversely affect consumers, particularly in areas with limited 4G or 5G coverage.
Industry players, including MTN South Africa and Vodacom, emphasize the need for flexibility in deadlines due to the high costs of upgrading devices and infrastructure.
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