MTN South Africa and Lynk Global complete Africa’s first satellite-to-mobile call, expanding connectivity in remote and rural areas. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

MTN South Africa, in partnership with LEO satellite provider Lynk Global, has successfully completed Africa’s first satellite-to-mobile phone call

The technical trial took place recently in North West province, marking a significant step toward extending mobile connectivity to underserved regions. The call, conducted in Vryburg, allowed MTN and Lynk Global to assess voice call quality and SMS capabilities using a LEO satellite link.

Exploring new connectivity solutions

According to Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa, the trial represents a crucial proof of concept, demonstrating MTN’s ability to enhance its terrestrial network with LEO satellites. “The technical trial was part of our work to find potential solutions to the challenges of providing coverage in underserviced, rural and remote areas,” commented Molapisi. 

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which operate between 160 km and 2,000 km above Earth, offer advantages such as faster data transmission and lower latency, making them well-suited for real-time applications. Notably, this technology works with standard mobile devices, eliminating the need for specialised hardware.

Molapisi emphasised the transformative potential of satellite partnerships for MTN’s connectivity goals. “The implications of potentially leveraging satellite partnerships will not only help MTN achieve its goal of 99% broadband population coverage, but most importantly benefit all South Africans.”

Advancing satellite technology for mobile networks

The reduced signal travel time of LEO satellites is particularly beneficial for services such as video conferencing and online gaming. Additionally, advancements in space technology have significantly lowered launch costs, from approximately US$85,000 per kg in the 1980s to about US$1,000 today.

Lynk Global’s chief commercial officer, Dan Dooley, highlighted the success of the trial in proving the viability of their satellite technology. “This marks the first satellite-to-unmodified-mobile phone call made on the African continent.”

Beyond improving mobile coverage, direct satellite-to-phone communication also has potential applications in mass notifications, enabling critical alerts such as weather warnings, health advisories, and emergency updates.

The trial was conducted in Vryburg, an agricultural town of about 21,000 residents, following regulatory approval from ICASA, which authorised the temporary use of radio frequencies within MTN’s licensed IMT spectrum.

By embracing innovative satellite solutions, the telecom industry is moving closer to ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for all, creating a future where modern digital access is truly universal.

Juniper Research forecasts a 114% surge in private cellular network revenue, driven by NaaS adoption and enterprise demand. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

A new study by Juniper Research, a leading expert in telecommunications markets, forecasts that global revenue from private cellular networks will surge to US$12.2bn by 2028, up from US$5.7bn in 2025

This represents a significant 114% increase, highlighting a growing trend of businesses investing in private network solutions.

The research predicts nearly 3,000 new private network deployments in the next two years, a sharp rise compared to the 2,500 deployments recorded over the previous four years. A major driver behind this expansion is the adoption of Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) models, which offer enterprises greater cost efficiency and scalability.

NaaS allows companies to lease private network components, enabling more flexible and cost-effective deployment strategies. Despite 5G being available for private networks since 2019, its market contribution is expected to reach only US$5.6 billion by 2028. This is primarily due to the lower operating costs of 4G, which remains a viable connectivity solution for industries like logistics and manufacturing.

“As the market grows, vendors must provide flexible business models such as NaaS to attract high-spending private network users. This will also enable vendors to expand private 5G deployments, as businesses are better able to maintain the capital and operational cost of the network,” said Research author Michelle Joynson.

The study highlights the rising demand for private cellular networks and the shifting telecommunications landscape, demonstrating enterprises' increasing interest in tailored network solutions to optimise their operations.

Eduvision has expanded significantly, facilitating interactive learning and real-time knowledge sharing. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Paratus Namibia remains dedicated to supporting Eduvision, a pioneering e-learning initiative that delivers reliable internet access to remote Namibian schools, bringing digital education to more than 12,000 students nationwide

This transformative partnership began when Barney Harmse, executive chairman of Paratus Group, connected with key stakeholders through Eduvision to explore how technology could bridge the education gap in underserved areas. From the initial digital board installations at Edugate Academy and Tsumkwe Secondary School, Eduvision has expanded significantly, facilitating interactive learning and real-time knowledge sharing. Today, over 12,000 students benefit from free access to quality online education, helping to close the digital divide in rural regions.

Expanding digital education?

With Paratus Namibia’s robust internet infrastructure, reinforced by GEO satellite technology, students across nine regions—from Katima Mulilo in the northeast to Tses in the south, Khorixas in the west, and Gam in the east—can access quality education and expert instruction. The programme has had a profound impact, providing students and educators with improved connectivity and enhanced learning experiences.

A dedicated Paratus Namibia technical support team plays an essential role in the initiative’s success, ensuring that schools receive prompt assistance when technical issues arise. In remote locations, where access to help is limited, this support is crucial in maintaining seamless digital learning environments.

Beyond connectivity, the Eduvision team also provides food, clothing, and essential supplies to schools and communities facing hardship. This outreach has strengthened relationships with students, parents, and educators, emphasising the importance of education in fostering future opportunities.

"Access to education is one of the most powerful tools for change, and through Eduvision, we are helping to provide digital learning access to remote Namibian schools where it is needed most. Seeing this initiative grow and positively impact so many students is truly rewarding. It’s not just about providing technology – it’s about creating opportunities for every Namibian child to learn, grow, and reach their potential, no matter where they live," commented Harmse.

A key milestone in the initiative includes the recent connection of Niitembu Primary School in the Oshana Region via Paratus VSAT to the Eduvision network and A. Shipena Secondary School in Soweto, Katutura, through Microwave connectivity. This enhancement further strengthens access to digital education in underserved communities. As Eduvision continues to expand, Paratus remains dedicated to advancing digital inclusion across Namibia.

“We are fully committed to this initiative. The impact is far-reaching because access to better education helps empower the next generation of Namibian leaders and pioneers,” concluded Harmse.

Also read: Intelsat expands Africa Space STEM program