MTN Group welcomed a high-level delegation from Uganda, led by Mr. James Makula, Chairperson of the National Start-up Technical Working Group, to its headquarters on Tuesday, 19 November 2024. The visit reflected MTN’s deep commitment to supporting the priorities of nation states by fostering partnerships that drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional collaboration.

As part of a benchmarking mission to South Africa, the engagement focused on knowledge exchange and exploring strategies to leverage technology for socio-economic progress. Discussions centred on advancing Uganda’s National Start-up Policy and enhancing cross-border trade opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Ms Yolanda Cuba, Vice President for MTN Southern and East Africa, underscored the value of collaboration in fostering sustainable growth. “Africa’s potential lies in our ability to innovate and collaborate. At MTN, we are proud to be a key enabler of digital transformation, empowering entrepreneurs and building ecosystems that foster sustainable growth. This engagement with Uganda reflects our shared commitment to shaping Africa’s digital future.”

As one of MTN’s earliest markets, Uganda holds particular significance in the company’s journey of expansion and partnership across the continent over the past three decades. Reflecting on the collaboration, Ambassador Kinta Nyago, Uganda’s Deputy High Commissioner to South Africa, remarked: “This visit underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving Uganda’s innovation agenda. MTN’s leadership in technology and its dedication to empowering start-ups resonates deeply with Uganda’s vision for economic transformation.”

Professor Ernest Aboho, a member of the Ugandan delegation, highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange. “MTN’s innovative strategies and investments in digital inclusion are exemplary. This visit has provided valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape Uganda’s start-up policy and create opportunities for our youth and entrepreneurs.”

Since its entry into Uganda, MTN strived to align its efforts with the nation’s development goals, supporting digital transformation and fostering partnerships that deliver tangible results. This visit underscores MTN’s broader commitment to enabling progress through collaboration with nation states across its footprint.

Concluding the engagement, Ms Nompilo Morafo, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, expressed MTN’s appreciation for the visit. “This collaboration is not just about exchanging ideas—it’s about creating tangible impact. Together, we can address Africa’s challenges with African solutions, ensuring inclusivity and sustainability in everything we do. MTN remains committed to empowering Uganda and the broader continent through innovation and partnerships.”

The delegation’s visit concluded with a tour of MTN’s Innovation Lab, where they explored cutting-edge technologies and initiatives driving digital transformation across Africa.