What is Telecommunications in Eswatini?

Telecommunications in Eswatini includes radio, television, fixed and mobile telephones, and the Internet. Eswatini is one of the last countries in the world to abolish an almost complete monopoly in all sectors of its telecommunications market.

Who controls South Africa's mobile network?

Until 2011, the state-owned operator, Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications (EPTC), also acted as the industry regulator and had a stake in the country's sole mobile network, in partnership with South Africa's MTN Group.

Is Eswatini a 3G or ADSL provider?

ADSL was introduced in 2008 and 3G mobile broadband services in 2011, but development of the sector has been hampered by the limited fixed-line infrastructure and a lack of competition in the access and backbone network. Eswatini has a relatively well-developed fibre optic backbone network.

Why did SPTC buy Swazi MTN?

In a bid to enter the mobile market independently, SPTC transferred its stake in MTN and the regulatory authority to the government. In return, Swazi MTN received a 3G licence and the right to provide its own backbone network and international gateway.

Does Swazi MTN have a monopoly on 3G?

In return, Swazi MTN received a 3G licence and the right to provide its own backbone network and international gateway. However, proposals have been made to reinstate SPTC's monopoly on the national backbone and the international gateway, and MTN is challenging SPTC in the courts over its move into the mobile market.