BTA2023 Chinese technology giant Huawei and telecom operator MTN Group have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating AI-driven intelligent network development across Africa.
The agreement was announced during Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026, one of the world’s largest telecommunications industry gatherings, held in Barcelona, Spain.
The partnership will focus on deploying artificial intelligence-powered telecom infrastructure, improving network automation, expanding broadband access, and strengthening digital infrastructure across the continent.
AI to Power Next-Generation Telecom Networks
Under the agreement, Huawei and MTN will use AI technologies to upgrade network planning, deployment, and operations, moving telecom infrastructure toward more autonomous and intelligent systems.
The companies aim to develop a next-generation architecture known as “Agentic Networks,” powered by AI copilots and intelligent digital agents that can automatically manage network operations.
The long-term target is to reach Level 4 Autonomous Networks (AN L4)—a stage where networks can operate with minimal human intervention while continuously optimizing performance.
This shift is expected to move telecom operations from human-driven management to AI-assisted network automation, enabling faster service delivery and improved operational efficiency.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The partnership will expand collaboration across several strategic areas:
Digital Inclusion
The companies will explore cost-effective solutions to extend connectivity to rural and underserved communities, while developing affordable device strategies and new access models.
Home Broadband Expansion
Huawei and MTN will work on expanding fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) services, aiming to improve broadband penetration across Africa.
Operational Efficiency
AI-driven network management will help improve service delivery while reducing operational costs.
Data Monetization
The partnership will explore secure and compliant ways to generate value from telecom data through AI-powered analytics.
Digital Infrastructure Development
The companies will strengthen AI-ready data centers, fiber networks, and connectivity platforms to support Africa’s growing digital economy.
Innovation Lab to Drive New Telecom Solutions
A key part of the collaboration will be the Huawei–MTN Technology Innovation Lab, located at MTN Group Headquarters.
The lab will serve as a testing ground for new technologies, enabling solutions to move from proof-of-concept to pilot projects and full commercial deployment.
Industry experts say innovation labs like this are critical for accelerating telecom innovation and testing AI-powered network capabilities before large-scale rollouts.
Leadership Perspectives
According to Selorm Adadevoh, Group Chief Commercial, Strategy and Transformation Officer at MTN Group, the partnership builds on a long-standing collaboration that has supported the telecom company’s growth across African markets.
He noted that future cooperation will focus on AI-enabled networks, operational efficiency, and new digital business models, while also accelerating progress in broadband expansion and device adoption.
Meanwhile, Li Peng, Senior Vice President at Huawei, said intelligent telecom networks will play a critical role in supporting Africa’s digital economy.
He emphasized that next-generation networks will not only provide connectivity but also support AI-powered services and digital innovation across industries.
A Strategic Step Toward Africa’s Intelligent Economy
The agreement marks a shift from exploratory cooperation to a more structured strategic partnership between Huawei and MTN.
As telecom operators across Africa invest in AI, 5G, and next-generation connectivity, partnerships between technology providers and network operators are becoming essential for building the infrastructure required for digital transformation.
Industry analysts say the collaboration could play a key role in supporting Africa’s AI-driven telecom networks, broadband expansion, and digital economy growth.
