MTN and Huawei join forces to set up local lab

A major African telecoms service provider is joining hands with a leading global equipment manufacturer to set up an innovation lab in South Africa.

The collaboration between MTN and Huawei envisages an innovation lab that will focus on capabilities that will fast forward the continent’s digital future, such as fifth-generation (5G) and 5G-advanced technologies, AI, cloud computing, data analytics, fibre-to-the-home, automation and fintech, as per a report in Engineering News.

‘It is about solutions born in Africa, for Africa. It will catalyse the growth of the digital economy, fostering innovation and generating long-lasting opportunities to empower communities and advance the continent’s development,’ says MTN Group president and CEO Ralph Mupita.

The company’s chief technology and innovation officer, Mazen Mroué, adds that MTN will be able to test the efficiency and value of any new tech in its own lab, before starting to deploy it locally. The Technology Innovation Lab, located in Roodepoort, Gauteng, is expected to employ 10 people, according to Moneyweb. ‘It is a space where the best minds can come together, share ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible,’ he says. ‘By working closely, we can leverage each other’s strengths and the collective brilliance of Africa’s innovators to create solutions that will transform lives. This collaborative spirit is what will unlock the true potential of this lab.’