By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
MTN Group has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing digital and financial inclusion across the continent as part of its Africa Day message.
In a statement, the mobile operator described itself as a pan-African digital operator committed to unlocking Africa’s potential through sustained investment in connectivity, technology, and digital platforms.
It stated that it currently serves approximately 250 million customers across 19 markets and employs 15,000 people representing 74 nationalities and ethnic groups. According to MTN, 87 percent of the 1,730 employees recruited in 2025 were local hires within their respective countries.
“Our Pan-African roots run deep, and today we are humbled and proud to acknowledge these,” says MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita. “Our continent has enormous potential, and we are committed to helping unlock this through our networks and platforms.”
MTN’s purpose is leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress.
“The unity of Africans is the strongest foundation off which to secure a prosperous future for Africa’s youth, who will represent the world’s largest workforce by 2040,” he says, adding that the continent has much to gain from this demographic dividend.
The telecommunications group disclosed that it generated R150 billion in economic value-added across its markets in 2025, while contributing R61.1 billion in taxes during the same period. MTN also reported capital expenditure of R38.5 billion in 2025, aimed at strengthening digital and physical infrastructure across its operations.
Mupita adds its investments continue to support the expansion of national digital backbones, enhance connectivity, and create opportunities for businesses and communities.
“Our success is irrevocably tied to the progress of the nations we serve. Together, we create jobs, develop local suppliers, build digital skills and support essential services like education, healthcare and infrastructure, “says Mupita, adding that MTN’s listings on the stock markets in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda are critical levers in MTN’s localisation and value-creation journey.
“We’ve made it our goal to drive digital and financial inclusion, giving the people in the communities we serve dignity, hope and opportunity. Africa needs to chart and champion her own growth. It is up to us all to unlock Africa’s boundless potential.”
Looking ahead, Africa’s future will be defined by what we choose to build together. When Africans act with greater unity, shared purpose and collective resolve, we lay the foundation for the Africa we want: more inclusive, more resilient and more prosperous.