Steady economic growth and increased per capita income in Zambia has resulted in an increase in the number of mobile users from 0.6 million in 2005 to 1.03 million in 2006, and to 1.6 million in 2007. By expanding capacity on the entire GSM network, improving network coverage quality, and providing diversified value-added services, Zambia MTN eagerly strives to meet market demands to acquire a larger market share. Under such circumstances, Huawei has supplied an entire-network capacity expansion solution which integrates GSM, microwave, core networks, and Turnkey to help MTN become more competitive in mobile markets.

Microwave Beta Test, A Good Beginning 

Huawei has long been cooperating with MTN, but has yet to provide microwave technologies to MTN. Before implementing the overall solution, Zambia MTN decided to deploy two Huawei microwave beta sites to ensure the reliability of this solution. Upon receiving the request, Huawei immediately spent merely two and a half months from preparing the product, clearing customs, and ensuring required materials for beta tests. Huawei then started beta installation and tests on the site and delivered the project within 10 days with positive test performance results. The fast and high-quality delivery left a profound impression on MTN, who finally selected the Huawei Turnkey solution to expand capacity on its entire network, including civil engineering, core networks, wireless networks, Application & Software, and microwave transmission.

Increasing Delivery Efficiency with Site Management Models 

Due to scattered project areas and inconvenient transportation, verifying and learning about all site information was tedious and cost-ineffective for project managers. Therefore, project teams established information management models for each site, integrating all information related to site construction, processes, risks, and materials. This not only provided project teams with a full view of its management and all site details, but also provided guidance for subcontractors, ensuring timely project delivery. Based on the problems reflected in the site management model, Huawei was able to negotiate with subcontractors at any time to provide solutions and arrange completion times, which greatly increased delivery efficiency. 

D.G. and Battery Hybrid Power Sites

Sparsely populated, many minor cities in Zambia have difficulty acquiring power supply. Site power supplies usually rely on diesel generators (DG), and some backbone sites need to be equipped with two DGs. High fuel fees and DG maintenance costs result in high O&M costs, which was a main concern for the sustainable development of Zambia MTN. After recognizing the requirements set out by MTN, Huawei recommended the D. G. and battery hybrid power solution to MTN. This solution alternates between DGs and batteries. DGs simultaneously supply power to sites and charge batteries. After the battery is charged, the system will automatically shut down the DGs and switch to the battery power supply to reduce DG runtime and improve power usage.

Successful project delivery enables Zambia MTN to greatly improve network quality, enhance the MTN brand image, and acquire more users. By the end of March, 2009, the number of MTN users had reached 778,000 (Source: Informa), while its market share increased to 20.5%. With its expanded capacity and high-quality networks and services, Zambia MTN has expanded market share and has consolidated its market presence by providing diversified and innovative services, building a bright communication world for a nation of copper.