Vodacom has deployed a Dual-Band Massive Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO) radio in Cape Town, the first of its kind in Africa. This marked the start of another network modernisation project in South Africa.
The mobile network claimed that the upgrade was an example of Vodacom’s continuous plan to strengthen its local 5G network leadership and future-proof its network to satisfy rapidly increasing customer demand for data.
By deploying the radios, Vodacom could broadcast all of its newly acquired time division duplexing (TDD) spectrum from a single device.
“For consumers, this means that they experience ultra-fast 5G download speeds and enjoy high-capacity 5G broadband services for both home and business use,” Vodacom said.
Simplification of spectrum bands
The new Dual-Band Massive MIMO Radio combines two spectrum bands into one small device: B41 (2.6GHz) and n78 (3.5GHz).
Vodacom will be able to provide its LTE and 5G services in a manner that maximises both spectrum and energy consumption, among other advantages.
“It also ensures a smooth user experience across technologies, a reduction in installation and maintenance complexity, as well as allowing Vodacom to continue to reduce its cost base while accelerating rollouts,” the operator said.
Benefits
Beverly Ngwenya, technology director at Vodacom South Africa, says the action would increase network capacity and provide an excellent user experience.
“The ability to deploy all our TDD spectrum on a single radio is something that we have been working towards since we acquired the spectrum,” Ngwenya said.
“This will make a big difference in how we roll out our high-capacity and sustainable radio network.”
According to Ngwenya, as demand for 5G grew, Vodacom realised it needed to devise more intelligent ways to expand its network while maximising energy and cost efficiency.
“Investment in the network and new technology remain critical to delivering an exceptional 5G customer experience as we continue to connect our customers to a better future,” Ngwenya said.
Vodacom Central Region invests R400 million on network improvements
Techpression recently reported that Vodacom Central Region—which serves the Free State and Northern Cape provinces this fiscal year—is spending more than R400 million on network improvements. With an emphasis on linking underprivileged areas throughout the Free State and Northern Cape, this money will be used to build network infrastructure, improve capacity and resilience, and empower communities.
To increase broadband coverage throughout the region, the region spent R340 million in 2022–2023 and R500 million in the 2024–2025 fiscal year.
This three-year investment of more than R1.2 billion is part of Vodacom’s long-term goal of having the most dependable and extensive network available to all South Africans, regardless of where they reside.