MTN Group, in partnership
with Huawei, have officially inaugurated the Technology Innovation Lab at MTN
Group’s headquarters. This milestone marks a significant advancement in their
ongoing collaboration across diverse digital fields. Initially announced during
MWC 2024, when the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding, the
establishment of the lab aims to further deepen their collaboration,
accelerating digital transformation and sustainable development across Africa.
The Technology Innovation Lab is poised to be a catalyst
for digital progress in Africa. By fostering cross-regional collaboration, it
will stimulate the African digital ecosystem and promote the rapid development,
deployment, and adoption of cutting-edge innovative solutions.
This lab plays a crucial role in MTN’s evolution, moving
beyond the traditional telecommunications operator role to become a leading
provider of comprehensive technology services. Research and development within
the lab will concentrate on vital areas including 5G and 5G-A technologies,
artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, FTTH, automation
and digital financial services – all catalysts for Africa’s digital future.
During a tour of the facilities at the launch event,
visitors were treated to several world-class technology use cases across Network,
Fintech, Information Technology (IT) and Security (IS).
Ralph Mupita, President and Chief Executive Officer of
MTN Group, stated: “This lab further
demonstrates our commitment to developing relevant, sustainable, and
transformative solutions designed specifically for the African context and
signifies a strategic investment in Africa’s future – It’s 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.”
Mazen Mroué, Chief Technology and Information Officer at
MTN Group emphasised during the ceremony: “The
Technology Innovation Lab is more than just a hub for tech; it’s a platform for
collaboration, demonstrating our technology capabilities resulting from the
continuous investment made by MTN during the last 30 years. It is a space where
the best minds can come together, share ideas, and push the boundaries of
what’s possible. 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.”
Cao Ming, President of Huawei’s Wireless Solutions,
stated: “We will collaborate with MTN
to create leading products and solutions for the African market, and together
explore new business models to lead the industry forward. We believe that the
establishment of the innovation lab will accelerate the development of Africa’s
digital economy and build a more prosperous and sustainable African continent.”
The Technology Innovation Lab will serve as a hub for
experimentation, demonstration, and skill-building. It is equipped with
state-of-the-art facilities and resources designed to support cutting-edge
research and development initiatives. The Lab is open to MTNers, partners and
other stakeholders based on prior reservation to access the facility. This
stands as a testament to MTN and Huawei’s dedication to the future of Africa.
It will pave the way for unparalleled innovation, digital inclusion, and
economic progress across the continent.
By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
