— Customers with 2G-only devices urged to upgrade as company offers free SIM replacements and eligible handsets until December 31
ONE Communications has officially discontinued its 2G mobile network across Guyana, completing a nationwide shutdown that will require customers still using 2G-only phones or SIM cards to upgrade their devices to continue accessing the company’s mobile services.
The telecommunications provider announced on Saturday that the decommissioning exercise was completed in October 2026, marking a major step in its ongoing network modernisation programme aimed at improving mobile connectivity, increasing capacity and delivering more reliable services.
According to a company release, the shutdown was undertaken in five phases, beginning on May 14, and covered network sites across Georgetown, East Coast Demerara, West Demerara, East and West Coast Berbice, Essequibo and several hinterland communities.
The move brings an end to the company’s operation of second-generation mobile technology as it redirects resources towards more advanced telecommunications infrastructure, particularly its 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network.
Chief Executive Officer of One Communications Guyana, Abraham Smith, said the transition reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening its mobile network to meet the country’s growing connectivity needs.
“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.
He explained that retiring the older technology would allow the company to concentrate its investments on modern infrastructure capable of delivering faster data speeds, greater network capacity and an improved mobile experience.
The transition comes as mobile-data usage continues to increase across Guyana.
One Communications had previously reported a 28 per cent increase in mobile-data traffic and a 23 per cent rise in average data consumption per customer, underscoring the growing demand for improved telecommunications infrastructure.
As part of its broader network-improvement programme, the company has also undertaken capacity enhancements at 35 mobile sites nationwide.
Meanwhile, customers already using compatible 3G or 4G LTE devices and SIM cards generally do not need to take any additional action following the shutdown.
However, those still relying on 2G-only devices or SIM cards will need to upgrade to compatible technology to regain or maintain access to the company’s mobile services.
To support affected customers, One Communications has been implementing a migration programme for more than a year, using direct telephone calls, text messages, public notices and community-outreach activities to educate customers about the transition.
The company confirmed that free SIM upgrades and replacement handsets remain available to eligible customers until December 31, 2026.
Customers upgrading their SIM cards will also be able to retain their existing mobile numbers.
Those uncertain about whether their devices or SIM cards are compatible are encouraged to visit their nearest One Communications store, contact customer support on 0663 or use the eligibility checker available at https://onecommgroup.com/gy/2g-decommissioning/.
“One Communications continues to encourage customers who have not yet upgraded to do so promptly to restore access to mobile services,” the company stated.
The telecommunications provider said the completion of the 2G shutdown forms part of its long-term strategy to strengthen Guyana’s telecommunications infrastructure and support the country’s expanding digital economy.
It further committed to continued investments in network improvements, capacity expansion and enhanced connectivity to meet the evolving needs of households, businesses and communities nationwide.