MTN mmWave Trials Show Promise for Extending 5G Broadband Reach

Why It Matters

The results prove that mmWave repeaters can broaden 5G FWA reach, relieving pressure on crowded sub‑6 GHz bands and accelerating broadband penetration in markets where fibre is uneconomical.

Key Takeaways

• Pivot repeaters boosted speeds 2‑5× in trials
• mmWave overcame foliage and building blockage
• No new macro towers required for coverage
• Trial licences secured from Icasa regulator
• Supports 5G FWA growth, eases sub‑6 GHz pressure

Pulse Analysis

The South African telecom landscape has long grappled with the twin challenges of limited fibre rollout and congested sub‑6 GHz spectrum. Fixed‑wireless access (FWA) emerged as a stop‑gap, but its reliance on lower‑frequency bands strains capacity as more households adopt high‑speed services. Millimetre‑wave (mmWave) spectrum offers vastly greater bandwidth, yet its short range and poor penetration have kept operators hesitant. By deploying repeaters that intelligently reflect and amplify mmWave signals, MTN and Pivotal Commware are testing a solution that could bridge this gap without the expense of new macro‑cell sites.

During the 2024‑2025 trials, the Pivot repeaters were strategically placed using WaveScape planning software to maximize household coverage while minimizing infrastructure footprints. At the three test locations—Vanderbijlpark and Seshego—the equipment transformed weak or 4G‑only connections into robust 5G links, delivering download rates up to five times higher than baseline measurements. The repeaters proved effective against typical South African obstacles such as dense foliage and multi‑storey housing, confirming that mmWave can be harnessed for reliable FWA in real‑world environments.

If scaled, this technology could reshape broadband strategy across emerging markets. Operators would gain a dedicated high‑capacity tier for fixed services, freeing sub‑6 GHz bands for mobile traffic and improving overall network efficiency. Regulators like Icasa may accelerate trial licences, encouraging further innovation in repeater design and deployment models. For enterprises and consumers, the promise of faster, more reliable 5G broadband without extensive new tower construction could drive digital adoption, support remote work, and stimulate economic growth in previously underserved regions.