MTN Benin participated in the ONE AFRICA DIGITAL FORUM 2026 to outline a shift in its digital strategy for the region. Company representatives detailed a plan centered on the integration of satellite and terrestrial infrastructure alongside the adoption of new network technologies to improve connectivity and security. This strategic pivot reflects a broader commitment by the organization to modernize its existing footprint and address the evolving demands of the digital landscape in Benin.
Chary Doumbia, General Manager for Enterprise Business at MTN Benin, argued that the future of digital access relies on a hybrid approach to network deployment. During the forum, Doumbia stated: "Satellite and terrestrial networks are not competitors, they are complementary. For this complementarity to benefit as many people as possible, we need affordable services and clear and fair rules of the game." MTN Benin officials maintained that combining these two transmission methods remains necessary to reach populations in areas where traditional terrestrial coverage is limited. By leveraging the strengths of both systems, MTN Benin officials emphasized the need for combining satellite and terrestrial networks to expand digital access across the territory. This integration is intended to ensure that connectivity remains consistent, even in challenging geographical conditions where infrastructure development has historically faced obstacles.
Titi Fakuade, MTN Benin Chief Technology and Information Officer, identified 5G and the Internet of Things as the primary drivers for the company’s upcoming infrastructure investments. Fakuade noted that these technologies demand a shift in how digital security is managed across the continent. According to Fakuade: "With 5G and the Internet of Things, it is no longer just a question of connecting Africa, but of building trustworthy digital ecosystems. Security must be built into the design stage, and collaboration is key to building our collective resilience."
MTN Benin identified 5G and the Internet of Things as key drivers requiring secure digital ecosystems to support long-term growth. The company acknowledges that as these advanced technologies become more prevalent, the risks associated with digital connectivity also evolve, necessitating a proactive stance on security protocols. MTN Benin intends to prioritize these secure frameworks as it incorporates 5G and Internet of Things capabilities into its broader operations in Benin. The focus on security at the design stage is a cornerstone of the company's technical roadmap, ensuring that the deployment of new network capabilities does not compromise the integrity of the data transmitted across its systems. By embedding these protections early, MTN Benin aims to create a strong foundation for future digital services, allowing users to interact with the network with greater confidence and reliability as the company expands its technological reach.
