MTN celebrates its 30th anniversary with pride, recognizing the profound impact it has had on South Africa and the African continent as a whole. From its humble beginnings in 1994 as a small South African startup with just 20 employees, MTN has emerged as a global telecommunications leader, employing over 17,500 individuals from more than 70 nationalities across 18 diverse markets.
Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO, expresses gratitude to stakeholders past and present, acknowledging their pivotal role in the company’s remarkable journey. MTN’s evolution has been marked by its commitment to innovation and investment in cutting-edge technologies like 4G and 5G, ensuring widespread digital inclusion and economic empowerment.
In South Africa, MTN’s impact is evident with its network reaching 97% of the population, providing a vital foundation for digital connectivity and economic growth. A recent study by KPMG highlights MTN’s significant contribution to the country’s GDP, cementing its position as a key player in the national economy.
Beyond South Africa, MTN’s influence spans across Africa, connecting millions and empowering them with essential communication tools and access to vital services. The company’s success is reflected in its impressive revenue of over R220 billion in 2023, demonstrating its market leadership and the increasing demand for digital services across the continent.
MTN’s commitment to socio-economic development is evident through its substantial tax contributions to governments, support for public services and infrastructure development, and creation of economic value through job creation and digital innovation. The company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility is showcased through initiatives like the MTN Foundation, which focuses on developing digital skills to enable the digital economy.
MTN’s ethos of giving back is exemplified through its annual “21 Days of Y’ello Care” initiative, now extended to 30 days in commemoration of its 30th anniversary. This year’s theme, “Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow: Education for Rural and Remote Communities,” underscores MTN’s focus on bridging the educational divide in underserved areas, providing digital learning tools, and supporting educational infrastructure to empower the next generation of leaders.
As MTN looks to the future, its commitment to bridging the digital divide, empowering individuals and communities, and driving sustainable and inclusive progress across Africa remains unwavering. Through continued innovation and investment in digital solutions, MTN aims to shape a brighter future for all.
