eSwatini civil protests hit MTN network operations

MTN says its operations in eSwatini have been impacted by the ongoing civil protests in the country which have caused intermittent disruptions to communication services.

Protests in the monarchy, led by King Mswati III, erupted as protesters took to the streets demanding political reform. Pro-democracy activists on Wednesday said overnight clashes with police had had multiple casualties, AFP reported. 

MTN, which is Africa's largest mobile operator by subscribers, said it had been "experiencing disruption to services and connectivity as of 29 June 2021".

The protests have also disrupted the road freight logistics between eSwatini and South Africa, with reports of trucks ferrying goods from South Africa being looted and damaged.