MTN Zambia and Huawei Launch Meta-AAU Antenna to Enhance Network Performance
MTN Zambia has partnered with Huawei to introduce the latest Meta-Active Antenna Unit (Meta-AAU). This innovative solution represents a major leap in 5G technology, offering greater coverage, increased bandwidth, and reduced energy consumption compared to traditional antennas.
In a groundbreaking move to enhance network performance and energy efficiency, this collaboration sets the stage for future advancements in mobile connectivity.
Speaking at the launch in Lusaka, MTN Zambia’s Chief Technology Officer, Thomas Ngoma, hailed the development as a pivotal moment in the company’s journey towards 5.5G technology.
“This collaboration marks a crucial step in MTN Zambia’s journey towards 5.5G. Huawei’s dual-band AAU technology not only enhances current network performance but also provides a clear path for future 5.5G evolution. It lays the foundation for the next phase of commercial 5G deployment. We will continue to strengthen our partnership with Huawei to deliver world-class digital services to Zambian users,” Ngoma stated.
Developed through the MTN-Huawei Joint Innovation Lab, the Meta-AAU has already been successfully deployed within MTN Zambia’s 5G network. The new technology sets a benchmark for efficient and sustainable 5G infrastructure development in both Zambia and the wider African region.
Robin Yu Bin, Director of Huawei’s Southern Africa Multi-country Management Department, emphasized MTN Zambia’s role as a pioneer in deploying advanced 5G solutions.
“MTN Zambia is the first operator in Africa to commercialize 2.6G and 3.5G dual-band AAU. Its successful deployment demonstrates the feasibility and commercial value of this solution. Huawei will continue to leverage its expertise in 5G technology to help MTN build a sustainable, intelligent network infrastructure,” Yu Bin said.
The Meta-AAU solution addresses several critical challenges, including limited tower space, high operational expenditures, and costly deployment. It integrates high-density Extended Large-Scale Antenna Arrays (ELAA), enables coordinated scheduling for dual bands, and supports remote independent adjustments and advanced sleep modes for improved energy efficiency.
Unlike traditional antennas, the Meta-AAU simplifies deployment by significantly reducing tower space requirements, lowering rental costs, and eliminating the need for front-haul upgrades, leading to substantial cost savings.
With this latest development, MTN Zambia reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge digital solutions and paving the way for the next phase of 5G evolution in Zambia and beyond.
