Last Updated on Sunday, 1 November 2026, 7:55 by Written By Denis Chabrol
One Communications (Guyana) on Saturday has said it successfully completed the nationwide decommissioning of its legacy 2G network, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing investment in modern telecommunications infrastructure and improved mobile connectivity across Guyana.
The exercise was undertaken in 5 phases, beginning on May 14, with the final phase completed in October 2026. The shutdown covered network sites across Georgetown, East Coast Demerara, West Demerara, East and West Coast Berbice, Essequibo and some Hinterland communities, bringing an end to the company’s operation of second-generation mobile technology.
Chief Executive Officer of One Communications Guyana, Abraham Smith, said the completion of the transition reflects the company’s commitment to building a stronger and more capable mobile network.
“The transition forms part of our wider network modernisation programme, aimed at strengthening network performance, expanding capacity and meeting the growing demand for reliable mobile voice and data services,” Smith said in a company statement.
He explained that by retiring the older technology, the company can focus its resources on more advanced infrastructure, including its LTE network, which supports faster data speeds, greater capacity and a more efficient mobile experience.
The milestone comes amid increasing demand for mobile connectivity in Guyana. One Communications previously reported a 28 per cent increase in mobile data traffic and a 23 per cent rise in average data consumption per customer, highlighting the importance of continued investment in network capacity.
The company has also undertaken capacity enhancements at 35 mobile sites across Guyana as part of its broader network improvement programme.
What Customers Need to Know
For customers already using compatible 3G or 4G LTE devices and SIM cards, the shutdown generally requires no additional action. However, customers still using 2G-only phones or SIM cards will need to upgrade to compatible technology to continue accessing One Communications’ mobile services.
To assist affected customers, One Communications undertook a customer migration programme that began over a year ago, involving direct calls, text messages, public notices and targeted outreach. The company is still offering free SIM upgrades and replacement handsets to eligible customers, this will continue until December 31, 2026.
Customers upgrading their SIM cards can retain their existing mobile numbers. Customers who are unsure whether their phones or SIM cards are compatible are encouraged to visit their nearest One Communications store, contact Customer Support on 0663 or visit https://onecommgroup.com/gy/2g-decommissioning/ and use the eligibility checker to find out if they qualify for a free upgrade.
One Communications continues to encourage customers who have not yet upgraded to do so promptly to restore access to mobile services.
The completion of the 2G shutdown represents another step in One Communications’ long-term strategy to strengthen its telecommunications infrastructure and support Guyana’s growing digital economy.
The company will continue investing in network improvements, expanding capacity and enhancing connectivity to meet the evolving needs of households, businesses and communities across the country.
