Telkom dismisses MTN, Telkom Mobile deal rumours

Telkom dismissed industry speculation that MTN and Telkom Mobile have concluded a deal which involves tower and network sharing, and a more extensive roaming agreement.

Rumours regarding the deal further suggest that MTN will get access to Telkom Mobile’s 2300MHz LTE network, and may even invest in the growth of this network.

A closer relationship between MTN and Telkom regarding backhaul and transmission network capacity acquisition is another benefit to both parties.

Telkom has an extensive country-wide fibre network, with a strong mast infrastructure presence in rural areas. This can help MTN to develop a country wide LTE network in SA.

Such a deal will make it possible for Telkom Mobile to continue operating in the way it does now, but without the need to continue investing heavily in its network.

Telkom, however, dismissed speculation that a deal was concluded, saying that it was still in discussions with various parties regarding Telkom Mobile.

“An announcement in this regard will only be made when the discussions are concluded,” said Telkom.

Graham de Vries, MTN’s acting chief corporate services officer, said that the company does not comment on market rumour and speculation.

“However, as a normal business practice, MTN engages with companies such as Telkom on matters such as roaming agreements,” said de Vries.

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