Still Stuck on 2G & 3G? Prepare to Migrate as MTN Announces Plans to Phase Out Those Services

Amid the fast-paced digital world, MTN Ghana has revealed plans to gradually phase out its 2G and 3G networks, urging customers to prepare for a future fully driven by 4G and above.

This new move was announced by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN-Ghana, Stephen Blewett, at the Digital Africa Summit, signaling a major shift in Ghana’s mobile landscape.

According to Blewett, although 4G coverage is now “ubiquitous” or available across all networks, a vast majority of customers remain stuck on 3G devices.

He explains that some choose to stay on 3G, believing 4G consumes data faster, while many simply do not own 4G-enabled devices.

“We believe we have to go towards sunsetting 2G and 3G,” Blewett said, adding that, “But we have to work in tandem with ensuring that customers have access to devices. Otherwise, we’ll end up in a situation where we want to sunset, but people say: I don’t have a phone that can work on 4G.”

Stephen Blewett admits that the biggest challenge isn’t spectrum, it’s access to affordable smartphones. While 4G-ready handsets are widely available in Ghana’s urban centers, millions in rural and low-income communities still rely on basic 2G and 3G phones.

He, therefore, observes that without deliberate measures to close this gap, the transition could leave many disconnected.

Given this reality, MTN acknowledges this reality and says the phase-out will be tied to device migration programs that help customers upgrade affordably. Partnerships with handset manufacturers, flexible payment options, and government-backed digital inclusion initiatives may all be key to ensuring no one is left behind.

For everyday users, this gradual shift could mean, at least, two things.

The move will result in a generally faster and better service. This is because phasing out older networks frees up spectrum for higher-speed internet, improved video streaming, and smoother digital services.

On the other hand, there is a need to upgrade, especially for those still on 2G or 3G phones. They will eventually have to switch to 4G or 5G-ready devices to stay connected.

Analysts confirm that globally, telcos are retiring 2G and 3G networks to keep pace with digital innovation. For Ghana, where mobile internet drives e-commerce, fintech, and everyday communication, the change is both inevitable and necessary.

However, the good news for Ghana, as announced by the CEO of MTN, is that the transition must be managed carefully. This means spectrum efficiency and faster internet cannot come at the expense of digital exclusion.

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