• FNB Connect has announced that it has a new network partner in MTN.
• This partnership will give customers access to more than just data and voice services but ICT services as well.
• The partnership forms part of MTN’s plans to support MVNOs more widely the telco’s CEO said.

Just a few months after Bradwin Roper moved from FNB Connect to MTN, the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) has announced that MTN is joining FNB Connect as a network partner.

This gives FNB Connect the ability to offer more services with chief executive officer at FNB Jacque Celliers noting the platform will offer fibre, 5G and LTE for faster and more reliable internet connections.

“We are pleased to join forces with MTN to deliver even greater value to all our customers. This collaboration is consistent with our efforts to leverage reliable network infrastructure in the market to accelerate our delivery of cost-effective data and voice plans and other ICT services,” Celliers said in a statement.

“Telecommunications and ICT services are central to the integrated value propositions we offer our customers across financial and lifestyle services. Our ability to help customers manage both their finances and telco needs through our trusted single digital platform is unique, consistent with our aim to provide helpful, easily accessible, and innovative solutions,” the CEO added.

To date, FNB Connect has run on the back of Cell C’s service which has been – at least of late – been piggybacking on MTN’s network. Essentially then, especially with Cell C switching off its towers, FNB Connect is now largely, an MTN money maker. To be clear, Cell C still exists and operates as its own entity but it uses a virtual radio access network operated by MTN.

For FNB Connect customers this should mean that connectivity is better, especially in more remote areas thanks to the MTN partnership. We are also curious to see how the offering is beefed up on the back of this announcement.

“The partnership is part of our broader efforts to support MVNOs and other institutions that recognise the value of connectivity and internet services for their customers. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both FNB and MTN, which have been instrumental in innovation in the South African market and is a further endorsement for MTN as the network of networks,” CEO of MTN South Africa, Charles Molapisi wrote in a press statement.

“By combining our strengths, we are poised to create a truly exceptional network experience for FNB Connect users while also enabling access to a broader range of ICT services, beyond just connectivity, for FNB customers. We look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on the South African telecommunications and financial services landscape,” the CEO added.

FNB customers that want to give Connect a test run can find out more about the offering here.