Optical & Fixed Networks

MTN’s Bayobab licenced to operate fibre networks in South Sudan

MTN’s Bayobab licenced to operate fibre networks in South Sudan

MTN Digital infrastructure – a.k.a. Bayobab – says its South Sudan subsidiary, Bayobab Infra Solutions, has been awarded a license from the country’s National Communications Authority to construct, install, and operate fibre networks.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Bayobab said the 15-year licence allows it to deploy and manage national and cross-border fibre networks, as well as offer national and international leased circuits and IP transit services.

The licence, which was officially issued October 16, covers terrestrial and satellite systems.

Bayobab said the South Sudan licence will enable it to deploy robust fibre infrastructure that will help bridge the digital divide by unlocking new opportunities for economic growth, digital inclusion and innovation in South Sudan and beyond.

MTN Digital Infrastructure CEO Mazen Mroué said the license is also a pivotal step in the expansion of Project East 2 West (E2W), the US$320 million initiative Bayobab kicked off in 2023 via a partnership deal with Africa50. Project E2W aims to build a resilient digital fibre corridor from the east to west coasts of Africa, connecting ten African countries.

“The South Sudan license strengthens the strategic E2W corridor, enhancing connectivity, resilience, and reach across East and Central Africa,” he said in a statement.

The Bayobab licence is the second South Sudan licence awarded to an MTN company this year, after MTN South Sudan secured a new 15-year mobile operator licence from the National Communications Authority. That licence replaces MTN's existing license that had been issued by Sudan prior to South Sudan becoming an independent country in 2011.



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