Tag: ESG

MTN Group, in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the African Editors Forum (TAEF), today launched the Pan-African Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a continental initiative to equip journalists with the skills, tools, and networks required to navigate a rapidly changing information environment.

The programme builds on the success of the MTN Nigeria MIP, established in 2022, and now extends the model to media practitioners across MTN’s footprint. It offers a certified 12-week curriculum, delivered independently by UJ and TAEF, which combines online academic modules with in-person immersion in Johannesburg. Participants will explore digital transformation, the sustainability of independent media, ethics and law, entrepreneurship, and the impact of platforms and emerging technologies on the information ecosystem. Industry masterclasses, newsroom visits, and innovation projects will connect academic learning to practice.

The launch comes at a time when Africa, like the rest of the world, faces rising levels of fake news, coordinated disinformation, and fragile business models. Strengthening media resilience is critical to advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 goal of inclusive, informed, and democratic societies. For MTN, the initiative also aligns with its role as a trusted partner to the countries where it operates, ensuring that connectivity supports not only digital access but also the institutions that safeguard trust.

Speaking at the launch, Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer said, “Africa’s digital future depends on both the infrastructure we build and the strength of the institutions that foster trust and accountability. Through the Pan-African MIP, we are investing in media capacity and innovation alongside respected academic and editorial partners. Together we aim to strengthen the information ecosystems that are essential for resilient democracies and inclusive growth.”

UJ spokesperson added, “Our partnership ensures that the programme is rooted in academic rigour while responsive to the realities of newsrooms. Equipping journalists with the skills to navigate disruption and build sustainable models is critical for the future of the profession.”

African Editors Forum spokesperson said, “Editors across Africa welcome this initiative. Independent media are indispensable to democratic governance, and partnerships such as this provide a pathway to greater resilience, collaboration, and trust.”

The launch, held at MTN’s Innovation Centre in Johannesburg, coincided with a visit from Nigerian journalists representing the MIP Alumni Association, symbolising the transition from a national programme to a Pan-African platform. The first cohort of fellows will begin in 2026.

In November 2024, MTN South Africa launched the Icon 5G smartphone, priced at R2,499 (about $138). Designed to make high-speed internet affordable to underserved populations, the launch was not just a nod to corporate social responsibility (CSR); it was also a strategic move to tap into an underutilised market of digital users. As Sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the least connected regions globally, efforts like this highlight how CSR and business growth are increasingly intertwined in the telecom sector.

For MTN, CSR has become an entrenched means of ensuring long-term sustainability and profitability by creating shared value for communities and stakeholders. Understanding stakeholder priorities and measuring community impact has become central to this approach.

Telecommunications companies like MTN are now operating in an environment where connectivity is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. According to the GSMA’s 2023 report, closing the digital use gap in Africa could generate up to $3.5 trillion for the global economy by 2030. Yet, barriers remain—including in terms of cost, infrastructure, and digital skills—holding back the sector’s growth potential.

The fundamental question facing companies operating on the continent is: how do we combine economic performance with real social impact? For MTN, this balance is now an intrinsic feature of its African operating model.

This balance between purpose and profit manifests differently across MTN’s markets, with each country CEO adapting community development strategies to local needs. Mitwa Kaemba Ng’ambi, who previously served as CEO of MTN Cameroon and now leads MTN Côte d’Ivoire as CEO, exemplifies this localised approach. The MTN Foundation’s systematic community investment model underpins much of this work: “It’s funded every single year by 1% of our profits, and with that 1% of profits, we have three primary areas of focus. One, of course, is education. We also have focused around women empowerment,” she explains. Beyond traditional CSR, her market-specific strategies have seen MTN build a mobile money merchant network of over 300,000 in Côte d’Ivoire alone, with women representing a significant portion of these digital entrepreneurs—demonstrating how targeted community programmes can drive both social impact and business growth

Affordable technology: Preparing the customers of tomorrow

The Icon 5G smartphone addresses one of the major obstacles to connectivity in Africa: affordability. By offering this terminal at a competitive price, MTN demonstrates its in-depth understanding of long-term growth dynamics. By democratizing access to 5G, the operator anticipates the emergence of a new generation of users for its high-speed networks.

Stephen Blewett, Managing Director of MTN Ghana, explains that connectivity fosters economic inclusion: affordable equipment is a gateway to digital ecosystems, and every new user represents an opportunity for growth for MTN – whether through mobile money, e-commerce or other digital services.

This is in line with the company’s Ambition 2025 strategy, which aims to strengthen growth in the digital and financial services sectors through targeted investments and increased customer engagement.

Education: developing digital skills and literacy

Among the most ambitious community development projects is the Digital Hub, a $25 million project currently under construction in Ghana. Ultimately, this technology hub will train more than 200,000 people in digital skills and create more than 100,000 jobs in three years. It will offer state-of-the-art workspaces to support the growth of local tech and promote the emergence of a digital ecosystem in the health, agriculture and education sectors.

However, faced with the massive challenge of youth employment in Africa — more than 200 million young people, the majority of whom have no training or skilled employment — the issue goes far beyond that of infrastructure. The emergence of technologies such as artificial intelligence further accentuates the urgency to act.

This project embodies a model that can be replicated across MTN’s different markets. The MTN Foundation has already supported more than 90 educational projects: ICT and robotics centres, classrooms, dormitories, scholarships, etc.

Watch: Mitwa Kaemba Ng’ambi, of CEO MTN Côte d’Ivoire talks about MTN’s support for young entrepreneurs building Africa’s digital future.

However, the issue of scale remains. The launch in 2022 of the Skills Academy in Zambia offers an extensible model, with training in digital and financial literacy. The economic argument is clear: better equipping communities means strengthening customer relations.

Health: between social utility and growth drivers

Health is another area where business strategy and community engagement come together effectively. The MTN Foundation has invested in 55 health projects, including health centres, maternity wards, blood banks, medical equipment and awareness campaigns.

These interventions address critical needs while positioning MTN as a trusted player in the field of public health. By illustrating the usefulness of digital infrastructures in access to care, they also pave the way for strengthened partnerships with governments and NGOs.

Mobile clinics and prevention campaigns have played a key role during health crises, highlighting MTN’s growing role as a provider of essential services.

Sustainability: Reconciling environmental commitment and operational efficiency

MTN has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 — a bold ambition, but based on a strong economic rationale. More than 3,000 solar-powered sites have already been deployed, reducing both the carbon footprint and long-term operational costs.

MTN’s sustainability strategy is not limited to climate. It also helps to strengthen the resilience of its operations. By reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, the company frees itself from fluctuations in the energy markets and guarantees the continuity of its services in difficult contexts.

Policy Advocacy: Protecting Infrastructure for Growth

In November 2024, Google’s Charles Murito advocated for fiber optic cables to be considered critical infrastructure — an initiative supported by MTN. Theft and vandalism of facilities remain major threats, generating additional costs and compromising the quality of services.

The strengthening of the regulatory framework benefits the entire sector, while ensuring the sustainability of investments and customer loyalty through an increased quality of service.

Measuring impact: from responsibility to accountability

MTN’s social commitment is reflected in a rigorous impact measurement policy. The company has 166 projects in the fields of health and education, with more than 4.5 million direct and indirect beneficiaries. These figures illustrate not only a civic commitment, but also the economic and social impact of its actions.

However, measuring the long-term impact remains complex. Programs such as mobile clinics or solar infrastructure require constant monitoring and funding to ensure their sustainability.

Challenges to be addressed

Despite these successes, some questions remain:

• Scale versus need: Programmes like the Skills Academy and Digital Hub are impactful but limited in scope relative to the continent’s vast needs. Partnerships with governments and NGOs are critical to scaling these efforts effectively.
• Financial sustainability: Community development programmes require consistent funding and monitoring to ensure long-term viability beyond initial implementation phases.
• Transparency and accountability: MTN has committed to providing comprehensive disclosures in its sustainability reports on supply chain emissions and long-term impacts, but maintaining transparency as programmes scale presents ongoing challenges.

A balance between economic performance and social impact

From accessible smartphones to educational hubs and healthcare projects, MTN’s CSR initiatives demonstrate the ability of telecom operators to reconcile social transformation and economic performance. By expanding their customer base and forging lasting partnerships, these companies strengthen their brand equity while exploring new growth drivers.

By responsibly addressing systemic challenges, MTN is setting a sector benchmark and charting a path to an inclusive, connected and prosperous Africa. Integrating community development into business strategy is, more than ever, a viable model for growth in emerging markets.

Sources:
GSMA – The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2024
GSMA – The Mobile Economy Sub-Saharan Africa 2023
Matsh – Youth Employment Statistics in Africa (2023)
World Bank – Africa Overview (2024)
MTN.com

Published on Jeune Afrique 20 July 2025: The role of telecoms in community development: CSR that goes beyond connectivity

MTN Group is pleased to announce the 2025 edition of 21 Days of Y’ello Care, our highly anticipated flagship employee volunteerism campaign, taking place from 1-21 June 2025.

Now in its 18th year, Y’ello Care continues to demonstrate the power of employee-led action to drive meaningful change across the communities we serve. Since its inception, the campaign has mobilised thousands of MTN employees to support impactful initiatives focused on education, health, youth development, and economic empowerment.

Each year, the campaign evolves to reflect the most pressing needs of society, while remaining grounded in our commitment to enable the benefits of a modern connected life for everyone. Over the past 6 years, we have reached the lives of 107,034 people across our communities through the impact of 14,376 MTN volunteers completing 56,306 cumulative hours of community engagement.

This year’s theme, “Connecting at the Roots – Connecting communities through the use of digital tools,” responds to the ongoing challenge of digital exclusion, particularly in rural, remote, and underserved areas. Across many parts of Africa, limited connectivity continues to constrain access to education, healthcare, financial services, and economic opportunity. Women, youth, persons with disabilities, and displaced populations are disproportionately affected.

Y’ello Care 2025 will see MTNers across our markets implement practical, community-led initiatives that leverage technology to unlock connectivity to bridge these gaps.

“Y’ello Care reflects our belief that real progress begins at the grassroots level. In 2025, we are focusing our efforts on the communities that remain on the margins of digital access and connectivity. By applying technology in ways that are practical, inclusive, and sustainable, we are working to ensure that no one is left behind,” said Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer. “Our people remain the driving force behind this campaign, and their continued commitment to serving with purpose is what makes Y’ello Care a true embodiment of MTN’s values.”

In line with MTN’s values, the campaign prioritises meaningful partnerships, responsible delivery, and inclusive engagement. Through trusted collaborations with community stakeholders, we aim to develop practical solutions that are responsive to local contexts, respectful of community aspirations, and inclusive of those most often excluded from digital progress.

Through Y’ello Care, MTN reaffirms its belief in the transformative power of technology and in the ability of our people to be agents of positive change. We look forward to working together with communities and partners to deliver meaningful, sustainable impact where it is needed most.

MTN Group has been inducted into the inaugural Brand Africa Hall of Fame “in recognition of its transformational impact on African consumers and its role in shaping a positive African narrative”.  MTN was also recognised as the #1 Most Admired African Brand Contributing to a Better Africa; the #1 Most Admired African Brand (spontaneous recall); the #1 Most Admired Brand Doing Good for Society and the Environment; and #1 Most Admired Telecommunications Brand.

The Hall of Fame honour, introduced this year by Brand Africa, acknowledges brands that have demonstrated sustained excellence and influence on the continent over the past decade. MTN’s induction reflects its ongoing commitment to enabling digital access, expanding financial inclusion, and contributing meaningfully to Africa’s development.

The announcement was made alongside the release of the 2025 edition of the Brand Africa 100 rankings – an annual, independently conducted survey spanning more than 30 African countries and representing more than 85% of the continent’s population and GDP.

“It is an honour to be inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame and to be named the most admired African brand contributing to a better Africa, the most admired African brand by spontaneous recall, as well as the brand most admired for doing good for society and the environment,” said Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO.

“That this recognition comes during Africa Month gives it added significance. It reflects the progress we continue to make as a continent and the role trusted brands must play in advancing inclusive, digitally enabled growth. We are grateful for the confidence placed in MTN by the people we serve and remain committed to delivering meaningful impact.”

Mupita also acknowledged the collective effort behind the brand’s success, thanking MTNers, partners, and other stakeholders across the continent for their role in making this recognition possible.

MTN operates mobile networks in 16 countries. Since 2021, the company has been guided by its Ambition 2025 strategic intent of Leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress. This underscores MTN’s commitment to driving digital and financial inclusion and fostering innovation across the continent.

Further validating its brand leadership, MTN was recently ranked once again as South Africa’s most valuable brand. The accolade was made in the 2025 Brand Finance Top 100 Report, which accorded MTN a brand valuation of R50.7 billion. MTN has held this position every year since the survey’s inception in 2012.

Brand Africa Recognition

As part of our work to deepen stakeholder relations and partnerships for Africa’s progress, MTN Group is a platinum sponsor of the Africa CEO Forum, which brings together the continent’s most influential decision-makers for two days of meetings on the private sector’s key role in accelerating Africa’s development.

The 12^th edition of the annual summit is taking place in Abidjan on 12–13 May 2025. Some 2 000 business leaders, investors and policy makers are in attendance to shape practical strategies to expedite Africa’s economic transformation.

The theme for 2025 is ‘Africa in a transactional world: Can a new deal between state and private sector deliver the continent a winning hand?’. It recognises the need for governments to strike a new deal with the African private sector, anchored on three pillars: an improvement of governance and accountability; targeted public policies to address Africa’s structural challenges; and the accelerated implementation of the African Continent Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

“At part of our shared value priority to support Africa’s progress, we at MTN seek to align with the priorities of our continent and nation states and to actively engage governments and regulators to help shape industry dynamics,” said MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Nompilo Morafo.

“MTN’s participation at the Africa CEO Forum reflects our nation states programme and our commitment to work together to enable inclusive growth,” she added, noting that escalating tensions in world geopolitics present headwinds to Africa’s budding economic recovery. “We believe the continent’s sustainable progress will come from trusted partnerships, coherent policy environments and shared investment in the systems that power Africa’s digital and economic future.”

As part of the Forum programme, MTN Group Senior Vice President: Markets, Ebenezer Asante, is participating in a panel discussion exploring tax policy and resource mobilisation. The session focuses on how public and private sector stakeholders can consult and collaborate to ensure fiscal environments that support both domestic priorities and the stability required for sustained investment.

MTN Côte d’Ivoire CEO Mitwa NG’ambi is contributing to a strategic roundtable on Africa’s digital transformation. This is looking at strategies to enhance network resilience and accelerate infrastructure deployment – particularly in underserved areas – and the role of policymakers in fostering an investment-friendly environment that accelerates digital transformation.

MTN Group’s sponsorship and participation at the Africa CEO Forum underscore our commitment to building a more connected, inclusive and prosperous Africa.

MTN Group this week convened its annual Chairmen’s Forum in Uganda, bringing together Board Chairs from its operating companies and senior executives from across the business. Held in Kampala, the Forum serves as a key leadership platform to reflect on strategic progress, strengthen alignment, and advance the Group’s ambition to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress.

On the sidelines of the Forum, the MTN Group delegation, led by Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas and Group President and Chief Executive Officer Ralph Mupita, engaged with national leaders and key stakeholders to reinforce the Group’s long-standing commitment to Uganda as a strategic market.

These engagements included a high-level meeting with His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at State House, Entebbe, as well as a stakeholder dinner hosted by MTN, attended by senior government officials.

During the State House meeting, President Museveni welcomed MTN’s continued investment and emphasised the importance of targeting sectors that generate employment and expand the economy. “If people have jobs and incomes, they will buy more phones and use them more,” he said. “That’s why we must invest in the four key sectors of wealth and job creation: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT.” He further encouraged MTN to explore cross-border investment as a means of promoting regional integration and intra-African trade.

Uganda holds a distinct place in MTN’s history as the first country outside South Africa where the Group secured a telecommunications licence. Granted in 1998, this licence marked the beginning of MTN’s international expansion, laying the foundation for what would become one of Africa’s leading digital infrastructure and platform businesses. Today, MTN Uganda stands as one of the Group’s most important markets, commercially and developmentally.

Mcebisi Jonas, MTN Group Chairman, expressed appreciation for the long-standing collaboration between MTN and the Government of Uganda. “We just came today to say thank you very much for the support you have always given us. We have had excellent collaboration from the regulators, and MTN is not here for the short term—we are here for the long haul,” he said. He also emphasised MTN’s interest in strengthening trade and business linkages between Uganda and South Africa, and highlighted the Group’s broader capacity to support national development. “We believe there is real opportunity to help Ugandan businesses enter the South African market, and that is something we can explore further.”

As MTN Group continues to drive the acceleration of Africa’s digital future, Uganda remains a key partner, demonstrating the enduring value of early investment, collaborative nation-building, and a shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable progress.

The 7th edition of the Benin Investment Forum (BIF) will take place from 8 to 9 May 2025 at the Sofitel Hotel in Cotonou, bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society to foster economic cooperation, attract foreign direct investment, and promote inclusive development. Organised by the Government of Benin through the Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEX) and the Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Forum comes at a crucial moment in Benin’s development, underpinned by structural reforms and macroeconomic stability.

MTN Group proudly joins the Forum as the Platinum and Headline Sponsor. This strategic partnership follows MTN Group President and CEO, Ralph Mupita’s market visit to Benin in January 2024, where the company reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to the country’s development as a trusted partner. MTN’s participation at BIF 2025 will be led by Senior Vice President Markets Ebenezer Asante, who will deliver a keynote address at the Opening Ceremony on the topic “MTN: Partner in Africa’s Development.” He will be joined by MTN Benin CEO Uche Ofodile and MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Nompilo Morafo, both of whom will participate in high-level discussions on finance, the future of technology, and women’s leadership in business.

MTN will also take the lead in hosting the exclusive MTN Investment Night, a high-level networking engagement aimed at facilitating meaningful dialogue among investors, policymakers, and senior business leaders. As part of its broader contribution to the Forum, MTN will collaborate with the Benin Ministry of Trade and Commerce to evaluate start-up pitches, spotlighting innovative solutions from emerging entrepreneurs. Additionally, the Group will deliver an inspirational leadership masterclass, curated to inspire and equip the next generation of African business leaders with insights drawn from MTN’s journey of growth and transformation across the continent.

Having operated in Benin for more than 25 years, MTN has made significant contributions to the country’s digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, and social development. The Group has committed over $215 million in new investments through 2026, including the rollout of 5G services, expansion of fibre connectivity, and the construction of a new MTN Benin headquarters. MTN’s impact also extends into health, education, and entrepreneurship through the work of the MTN Foundation, reinforcing its belief that digital access is key to unlocking national and regional progress.”

Commenting on MTN’s commitment to the Benin Investment Forum and the country, Ebenezer Asante, MTN Group Senior Vice President, Markets stated: “Our presence at the Benin Investment Forum reflects more than sponsorship, it’s a reflection of our unwavering belief in Benin’s potential and our shared journey toward inclusive digital transformation. Through strategic partnerships rooted in national development goals, MTN is proud to be a catalyst for progress, investment, and innovation in Benin and across the continent.”

MTN’s participation in the Benin Investment Forum 2025 exemplifies the company’s belief that inclusive, resilient growth must be rooted in strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors. As a partner of choice to African governments, MTN continues to play a leading role in building the infrastructure, capabilities, and ecosystems required for nations to thrive in a digital world. Through its involvement in BIF 2025, MTN reaffirms its commitment to Benin’s development journey and to advancing Africa’s digital and economic integration.

A pioneer in transformation in South Africa, MTN Group and major subsidiary MTN South Africa (MTN SA) each maintained a Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) contributor status in 2024.

MTN’s annual B-BBEE compliance report, compiled by an independent verification agency, underscored our efforts to drive inclusive growth and empowerment through deliberate and targeted interventions in the year.

“Our commitment to transformation and focused execution has yielded measurable successes across several elements of the B-BBEE scorecard, including notable improvements in management control, skills development and preferential procurement,” said MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita.

“As a result of our recruitment and talent management strategies, we increased Black representation in management across all levels and enhanced female representation on the Board of Directors. This is part of our goal of achieving gender equity by 2030,” he added.

MTN SA CEO Charles Molapisi was pleased with the results: “At MTN South Africa, we see our Level 1 B-BBEE achievement not just as a milestone, but as a reaffirmation of our purpose to lead with impact. Transformation is deeply embedded in our DNA, it guides how we invest, how we empower, and how we connect South Africans to real opportunities. We are proud to be part of building a future where inclusive growth drives true progress, for all.”

Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment in 2024, MTN remained committed to creating an equitable environment for previously disadvantaged individuals through our skills development programmes. We invested in building STEM capabilities to help future-proof our graduates and employees, equipping them with the tools required for the digital economy. This was achieved through structured learning, on-the-job training and mentorship.

As a significant player in the sector, we recognise our responsibility to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, not just as a corporate entity, but as a catalyst for positive change. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a key role in driving economic.

MTN Group announces the release of our annual reports for 2024. Produced under the theme of ‘Accelerating Africa’s digital future’, the suite of reports provides a thorough overview of our robust underlying performance, strategic delivery and contribution to society, as well as our priorities ahead.

“Committed to operating responsibly and ethically, in 2024 MTN remained focused on executing on our strategic intent of leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress, despite the global uncertainties,” said MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita.

“We couldn’t have done this without the support of our many diverse stakeholders. We invite you to read our reports, which strive to provide meaningful information tailored for various specific audiences.”

The 2024 Integrated Report tells the overall MTN value-creation story, detailing our strategic achievements and initiatives, including our operational highlights, financial performance and progress on ESG.  It explains how MTN leverages our brand, broad presence and skills as well as leading connectivity business, fintech offerings and digital infrastructure to expand digital and financial inclusion across Africa. This is done while mitigating risks and making the most of opportunities in our 16 markets.

This information, which reflects integrated thinking at the Group, endeavours to assist our investors and other stakeholders to understand the Group’s overall health and future focus. It is published alongside sustainability and financial reports as well as other important information for our shareholders.

ESG remains at the core of our strategy and is aligned with our work to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through our business activities and our support of governments, communities and customers. Our Sustainability Report provides a view of the Group around sustainability-related risks and opportunities that could reasonably be expected to affect MTN’s prospects.

As stewards of the digital age, we believe that safeguarding human rights is at the core of connectivity. In a year of numerous elections across the world, our Transparency Report outlines how MTN reinforced digital rights in 2024 by ensuring secure, uninterrupted connectivity to support free and fair democratic processes.

It also spells out how the rapid expansion of AI presents new ethical risks, prompting MTN to develop a Responsible AI Policy to uphold digital rights and data privacy.

In 2024, Africa faced intensifying climate risks, making sustainability and resilience essential to MTN’s strategy, regardless of changes in countries’ and companies’ adherence to climate policies. Our Climate Report highlights how we are actively addressing both mitigation and adaptation while leveraging emerging opportunities. In the year, we surpassed our emissions reduction target, cutting emissions by more than 46% off a 2021 baseline.

Our Tax Report underscores the role we play in supporting the socioeconomic development of our host nations. In 2024, MTN’s total tax contribution was R52.7 billion, made up of corporate taxes, indirect taxes, withholding taxes, payroll taxes, operating licence fees and other payments to government authorities.

The suite of annual reports also includes a Notice of Annual General Meeting, which invites our shareholders to participate in our virtual meeting on Thursday 29 May 2025. Our Remuneration Report provides transparent disclosure of the remuneration of our leadership based on performance against strategic priorities.

Our ESG Data Booklet is a handy resource for those interested in detailed disclosures relating to MTN’s planet, people, ethics and governance matters. As well as relevant statistics, it highlights our policy and position statements on various ESG issues as well as a comprehensive GRI disclosure index.

“Our prospects and investment case are underpinned by the structural demand we see in data and fintech,” said Mupita. “As a business, we remain resolute in our commitment to accelerating Africa’s digital future and will maintain the focus on operational excellence and strategic execution to capture the exciting growth opportunities in our footprint. We thank our stakeholders for their ongoing support.”

Click HERE to view the reports

The 2024 Africa PachiPanda Challenge, an initiative by MTN Group in partnership with WWF and FNB WesBank, concluded this week with a powerful celebration of Africa’s emerging eco-entrepreneurs. Hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa, the grand finale brought together the brightest young minds from across the continent, united by a shared vision for environmental sustainability and inclusive growth.

The initiative was designed to spotlight Africa’s next generation of environmental leaders and equip them with the tools, mentorship, and networks needed to scale their climate-smart solutions. Finalists from Nigeria, Cameroon, Zambia, and South Africa were invited to participate in a transformative two-day programme, which included expert-led masterclasses on business development, sustainable innovation, and impact measurement, culminating in a vibrant finale event that showcased the continent’s most promising green ventures.

Among the standout innovators, chosen by a distinguished panel of judges for its outstanding scalability, measurable impact, Moses Afopezi of Cameroon claimed first prize for his project AgricFresh, a tech-enabled platform designed to reduce post-harvest loss by professionalising farm management and enhancing market access. By integrating solar-powered cold storage systems, AgricFresh helps extend the shelf life of crops and supports a more efficient, climate-resilient agricultural ecosystem.

Olabisi Rafatu Emmanuel from Nigeria earned second place, and Jean Blaise Seka, also from Cameroon, secured third, with both recognised for their impactful, community-driven solutions that address local environmental challenges with creativity and ingenuity.

“Congratulations to Moses Afopezi and the AgricFresh team for this well-deserved recognition. Their work reflects the kind of grounded, forward-thinking innovation that communities across Africa urgently need,” said Nompilo Morafo, MTN Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer. “The Africa PachiPanda Challenge is one of the ways we’re working with partners to support climate entrepreneurship that is practical, inclusive, and rooted in real local needs.”

Innovation, particularly in climate-tech and sustainable development, is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of inclusive growth. According to the African Development Bank, every dollar invested in climate-resilient infrastructure yields four dollars in economic benefits. Initiatives like the Africa PachiPanda Challenge are helping to unlock this potential by equipping young innovators with the tools to scale locally rooted solutions. From digital platforms for waste management to energy-efficient technologies for agriculture, these ventures reflect the ingenuity of a generation that is redefining what progress looks like, bold, green, and built from the ground up.

WWF echoed their commitment to supporting youth-led solutions. WWF-Zambia Chief External Engagement Officer Fungai Musana, as the lead for the Africa lag said, “WWF is proud to be part of a historic moment, the successful execution of the inaugural Africa PachiPanda Innovation Challenge. This trailblazing, youth-led initiative marks a first of its kind on the African continent. A huge congratulations to the winners for their cutting-edge innovations! And to all participants, well done for stepping up and being part of this incredible journey. WWF is honoured to collaborate with MTN Group in empowering the next generation of sustainable leaders. We believe the ideas born from this challenge have the power to drive meaningful, lasting change for communities and the environment across Africa.”

Adding further support, FNB WesBank underlined the critical role that green innovation plays in Africa’s future, Kyle Durham Head of Sustainability at FNB Commercial, added that FNB, in partnership with WesBank is thrilled to be a part of the Africa PachiPanda Challenge and to support this groundbreaking initiative. The event has been a showcase of inspiring and visionary solutions to unique challenges, and AgricFresh stands out as a shining example of the innovation, passion, and dedication that young eco-entrepreneurs bring to the table, creating lasting impacts for a sustainable future.

As the overall winner of the Africa PachiPanda Challenge, Moses Afopezi AgricFresh project will receive USD 5000, along with ongoing mentorship and strategic support from MTN Group, WWF, UNDP, GSMA and other partners to expand the reach and impact of their innovation. Moses shared a brief insight on his experience: “Never did I imagine that the path to an international stage would be paved by the work we are doing at the grassroots level with AgricFresh. The recognition we’ve received fills me with immense joy and hope for the farmers whose lives we aim to improve. With the knowledge and prize, we’re now empowered to expand our reach to two more communities in Cameroon’s war-affected regions.”

Through this initiative, MTN, together with WWF and FNB WesBank, reinforces its commitment to supporting ideas that deliver lasting value for the environment and local communities. With a footprint in 16 markets across Africa, MTN recognises the unique responsibility and opportunity to provide young innovators with the visibility, resources, and support they need to thrive.

This challenge is a testament to how MTN is embedding sustainability into the way it operates, by investing in people and purpose, with a long-term view toward shared prosperity.