In this episode, Ralph Mupita, President and CEO of MTN Group, joins TechAfrica News’ Chief Editor and Founder, Akim Benamara for a candid conversation on the evolving role of telecoms in shaping Africa’s digital economy.

Africa’s digital growth goes beyond connectivity—it's a complex journey marked by economic challenges, fragmented regulations, and limitless innovation. Telecoms are no longer just infrastructure providers, but key drivers of digital economies, financial inclusion, and how the next billion Africans live and work online.

From weathering macroeconomic storms in Nigeria to building fintech platforms, driving regulatory reform, and exploring AI and satellite tech, Mupita shares insights into what it takes to lead—and innovate—on the continent today.
About Our Guest
Ralph Mupita has been MTN Group President and CEO since September 2020. Previously CFO, he led financial strategies and listings across Africa. With a strong background in engineering, finance, and telecoms, he drives MTN’s Ambition 2025 plan focused on digital transformation and inclusion. He also sits on several global advisory boards supporting Africa’s digital growth.

Financial Performance and Macroeconomic Challenges
Mupita highlighted mixed impacts from macro conditions. Despite strong underlying growth, MTN faced severe Naira depreciation in Nigeria in H1, with improved revenue, earnings, and cash flow in H2.

Nigeria’s Pivotal Role and Recovery
Nigeria remains key, contributing ~40% of earnings and ~50% of cash flow pre-2023. Mupita sees a V-shaped recovery driven by sound monetary policy, rising reserves, and subsidy reforms.

Digital Transformation and MNOs’ Role
MTN aims to lead Africa’s digital transformation by building ecosystems that fuel socioeconomic growth. Mupita emphasized digital economies can multiply benefits with minimal infrastructure.

Regulatory Harmonization and Competition
He called for alignment of regulations across African countries, noting varied frameworks hinder a unified digital economy. Harmonized licensing and spectrum policy are vital to unlocking potential.

“The first challenge is regulation. We need more harmonization across the continent. If we align regulations with a shared goal—to let digital assets drive growth—we’ll get closer to unlocking Africa’s potential.” – Ralph Mupita, CEO, MTN Group

AI, LEO and Non-Terrestrial Networks
Mupita echoed Ghana’s Minister Samuel, emphasizing Africa-specific AI. He acknowledged high AI infrastructure costs but supports local solutions like voice prompts in native languages. Building AI hubs is essential. He also highlighted LEO networks as key to rural connectivity, envisioning seamless access through hybrid infrastructure.
This episode was filmed on April 8, 2025, at the MTN Headquarters in Johannesburg.

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