MTN Ghana has announced plans to invest US$1.1 billion in network expansion, digital infrastructure and financial technology over the next three years as part of activities marking its 30th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to driving Ghana’s digital transformation and socio-economic development.
The telecommunications giant disclosed that US$380 million has been earmarked for deployment in 2026, with the investment expected to strengthen network capacity, accelerate commercial 5G services, expand Mobile Money (MoMo) infrastructure and enhance enterprise digital solutions across the country.
The announcement was made by the Chief Enterprise Business Officer (CEB), Angela Mensah-Poku, during the MTN Media and Stakeholders Forum held in Kumasi.
Speaking under the anniversary theme, “30 Years of Progress – Powered by You,” Mrs. Mensah-Poku said the investment represents MTN Ghana’s continued confidence in the country’s economic future and its determination to provide world-class digital connectivity for individuals, businesses and public institutions.
According to her, the investment programme will focus on expanding network coverage, improving service quality and positioning Ghana for the next generation of digital innovation.
She disclosed that one of the key priorities for 2026 is the construction of approximately 800 new cell sites across the country to improve network coverage and increase data capacity, particularly in underserved communities.
Mrs. Mensah-Poku further explained that MTN is upgrading its core network infrastructure to move beyond pilot projects and facilitate the commercial rollout of 5G technology, which is expected to support faster internet speeds, advanced digital services and increased business productivity.
She added that the investment would also strengthen MTN’s Mobile Money ecosystem and enterprise digital platforms to support the growth of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), while enhancing financial inclusion.
Tracing the company’s journey, Mrs. Mensah-Poku recalled that MTN Ghana began operations in 1996 under the SpaceFon brand at a time when fixed telephone lines dominated Ghana’s telecommunications landscape.
She noted that the company later evolved into Areeba before adopting the MTN brand in 2007.
Over the years, she said, the company has transformed from a voice and SMS operator into Ghana’s leading provider of digital, broadband and mobile financial services, controlling more than 60 percent of the country’s mobile voice and data market.
She observed that MTN’s Mobile Money platform has become a key driver of financial inclusion by enabling millions of previously unbanked Ghanaians to access digital financial services.
Mrs. Mensah-Poku indicated that beyond telecommunications, MTN continues to play a significant role in Ghana’s economy through tax payments, employment creation and support for local businesses.
According to her, the company contributes approximately six percent of Ghana’s total tax revenue, while supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs through its nationwide network of vendors, Mobile Money agents and technology partners.
She also revealed that MTN recorded strong first-quarter performance in 2026, driven largely by increasing demand for data services, enterprise digital solutions and mobile financial services.
Mrs. Mensah-Poku paid glowing tribute to media practitioners, particularly those in the Ashanti Region, for their role in documenting MTN’s journey over the past three decades.
“The media in Ashanti have told the MTN story.
From our first call in 1996 to today’s 5G trials, you have been our voice in communities, holding us accountable and helping us connect with the people we serve,” she said.
She noted that feedback from customers, regulators, media practitioners and other stakeholders continues to shape the company’s decisions and strengthen its relationship with the public.
Mrs. Mensah-Poku disclosed that MTN’s investment strategy also aligns with its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda.
She explained that the company intends to migrate more of its network infrastructure to renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability.
She added that MTN would continue investing in digital skills training programmes to equip young Ghanaians with practical technology and coding skills while expanding initiatives that leverage technology to improve education, healthcare and financial inclusion.
“This investment is about building the Ghana we all want—a digitally connected, inclusive and resilient economy,” she stated.
The Kumasi forum forms part of a nationwide stakeholder engagement programme being organised by MTN Ghana as it commemorates 30 years of operations, with similar events expected to be held across the country’s regions.
