MTN Group, in partnership with Huawei, has completed the world’s first large-scale deployment of the Alpha Antenna in Ghana, marking a major leap toward fully AI-driven and autonomous mobile networks.
The landmark rollout represents a significant upgrade in network intelligence and performance, setting a new benchmark for next-generation telecommunications infrastructure in Africa and globally. According to post-deployment tests, the Alpha Antenna deployment delivered a 6.8 percent increase in regional traffic capacity while boosting operations and maintenance efficiency by up to 30 times.
The Alpha Antenna introduces a shift from traditional, manual network management to an intelligent, closed-loop system capable of real-time data retrieval, precise control, and dynamic optimization. At the core of the solution is the Antenna Information Sensor Unit (AISU), which automatically collects antenna parameters in real time, eliminating the need for manual site inspections.
In addition, the Array Information Mapping Unit (AIMU) provides accurate, real-time visualization of network topology, reducing configuration errors and enabling remote adjustment of multi-dimensional beams. This allows the network to dynamically adapt coverage and capacity to real-time traffic demands, compressing optimization cycles from weeks to just minutes and significantly improving user experience.
MTN said the deployment addresses long-standing challenges in network operations, including heavy reliance on manual processes, slow response times, and inconsistent accuracy. By embedding AI into core network functions, the Alpha Antenna enables proactive and self-optimising network behaviour rather than reactive intervention.
The technology also lays a critical digital foundation for MTN’s transition to Autonomous Driving Networks (ADN), where networks can evolve, optimise, and heal themselves with minimal human input.
MTN Ghana described the Alpha Antenna deployment as a pivotal milestone in the digital transformation of its network infrastructure. Beyond reducing operational complexity and costs, the company said the solution equips its network with real-time intelligence and rapid-response capabilities essential for future digital services.
The collaboration with Huawei, MTN added, positions Ghana at the forefront of AI-powered telecom innovation and strengthens Africa’s role in shaping the future of intelligent, high-performance mobile networks.
