MTN CEO urges digital path to African unity

MTN Group President and Chief Executive Officer, Ralph Mupita, has identified the digital economy and adherence to the rule of law as critical pillars for fostering lasting unity and economic development across Africa.

His remarks come amid renewed anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa and growing calls in some African countries, including Nigeria, for retaliatory actions against South African businesses.

Mupita argued that expanding digital inclusion and strengthening economic integration could help address the underlying socio-economic challenges that often fuel xenophobic sentiments.

In a post on his LinkedIn page, the MTN chief said the continent’s growing youth population could become a major economic asset if equipped with digital skills and opportunities.

“MTN also believes that embracing the benefits of the digital economy is vital to turning the youth bulge we have in Africa into a youth dividend,” he stated.

The MTN boss noted that the digital economy offers borderless opportunities capable of driving job creation and economic empowerment across the continent.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining a stable environment for businesses to thrive, saying MTN remained attentive to developments in its major markets.

Speaking to Bloomberg, Mupita said, “We have not seen impacts specifically to our business, but we’re very sensitive in markets such as Nigeria and Ghana.”

He reiterated that Africa’s long-term progress depends on cooperation and respect for shared values.

“The future of Africa depends on greater social solidarity, increasing economic integration and the observance of the rule of law,” he added.

Mupita maintained that governments must uphold the rule of law and protect businesses and citizens alike, while the private sector continues to invest in digital infrastructure capable of driving Africa’s transformation into a more integrated and competitive economic bloc.