Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has announced plans to retire the country’s legacy mobile network technologies 2G and 3G in a phased approach, making way for faster, more secure, and modern communication services.
The decision, outlined under the Eswatini Communications Commission Act of 2013, will see:
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2G services: phased out between 1 December 2027 and 31 December 2028
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3G services: phased out between 1 December 2029 and 31 December 2030
Rationale Behind the Transition
According to ESCCOM Consumer Affairs and Communication Manager Fisiwe Vilane, the move is part of the Commission’s mandate to promote innovative and competitive communications infrastructure while ensuring high-quality services for users.
“We have seen a steady decline in the demand for 2G, while newer technologies like 4G and 5G have experienced tremendous growth,” said Vilane.
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The transition is not just about speed; it is designed to prepare Eswatini for the future of communication.
Benefits of Shutting Down 2G & 3G
Shutting down older networks will:
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Free up radio spectrum for more efficient use cases
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Support critical services, rural connectivity, and advanced technologies like IoT, AR, and cloud services
A market review from 2021 to 2024 shows:
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2G usage: declined to 0.2%
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3G usage: steadily declining at 24.5%
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4G usage: rapidly rising at 75.2%
Device Importation & Compliance
From 1 December 2025, the importation and type approval of devices supporting only 2G or 3G will be prohibited.
ESCCOM will:
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Work with Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) to control device entry at borders
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Conduct random inspections to enforce compliance
Mobile users are encouraged to gradually upgrade devices to maintain reliable, high-speed connectivity.
Impact on Users and Rural Communities
Industry experts predict that the shift will:
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Improve network coverage
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Reduce operational costs for service providers
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Meet consumer expectations for faster speeds and lower latency
In rural areas, the migration to 4G and 5G is expected to deliver more stable connections and better access to digital services.
Future-Proofing Eswatini’s Digital Economy
With global telecom already moving toward 6G research, ESCCOM believes that adopting modern networks will keep Eswatini competitive in the digital economy.
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