Telecommunications company, Cell C, has been recognised as joint #1 in mobile network reliability, video experience, and voice app performance in South Africa
This is according to the latest independent analysis by global authority Opensignal. This is also the first time in the operator’s history that it has secured the top spot for network reliability.
The recognition, according to the company, marks a turning point for Cell C, underscoring the success of its ongoing network transformation strategy and reaffirming its commitment to dependable customer connectivity.
“Reliability and video aren’t just metrics – they shape how people live today. From streaming and gaming to online learning or running a small business, our customers can now depend on Cell C in the moments that matter most,” said Jorge Mendes, CEO, Cell C.
Building on a Track Record of Progress
Cell C’s latest wins build on a string of independent achievements over the past 18 months. In August last year, the company was named South Africa’s outright winner for Video Experience, and joint winner for Upload Speed Experience alongside MTN.
Early this year, it earned the title of “Global Rising Star ranking among the Most Improved Network Experiences”, alongside Global Rising Star in Video and Upload speed categories.
The company says these gains reflect a consistent trajectory of improved customer experience across multiple categories, even before reliability entered the spotlight.
“We are proud that independent data validates what our customers are experiencing every day. We’ve made progress where it mattered most, and we are committed to taking voice and other services to the next level,” said Schalk Visser, Chief Technology Officer, Cell C (South Africa).
Looking Ahead
While Cell C has made major strides in reliability and video, executives acknowledge that voice services remain a key focus for further innovation. With the foundations of cloud-native VoLTE already in place, the company plans to enhance voice quality and expand service consistency.
“We know our journey isn’t finished. Voice improvements and further innovations are underway, but this milestone proves that we’re moving in the right direction,” Jorge Mendes noted.
“We’re humbled by this recognition – and we dedicate it to our customers, who have believed in us. We will keep fighting to make digital connectivity reliable and accessible to every South African.”
Industry leaders say Cell C’s joint #1 ranking in network reliability marks a significant moment in its transformation from a challenger to a credible leader in South Africa’s telecoms sector.
By leveraging partnerships, adopting innovative technology, and keeping affordability at the centre of its strategy, observers say the operator is delivering on its promise of reliable, accessible, and future-ready connectivity.
Talking Points
It is remarkable that Cell C has, for the first time in its history, been ranked Joint #1 in Network Reliability by Opensignal, alongside leading operators in South Africa.
This recognition validates the company’s network transformation strategy and proves that its capex-light, partnership-driven model is delivering real results for customers.
The achievement extends beyond reliability. With joint #1 positions in both Video Experience and Voice App Experience, Cell C is showing that its network is not just catching up, but meeting the real needs of South Africans.
At Techparley, we view this as a sign of how competition is reshaping South Africa’s telecoms sector. Cell C’s innovative use of infrastructure sharing has made it possible to expand access and affordability without duplicating costs, demonstrating a path other emerging-market operators may look to emulate.
However, challenges remain. Sustaining reliability across all regions and delivering further improvements in voice quality will be critical if Cell C is to consolidate its position. User experience, consistency, and ongoing investment in innovation will decide whether these gains translate into long-term leadership.
