As telecommunications giant MTN marks three decades of operations, it highlights the profound impact it has had.

The group was established in 1994 as a small South African startup with 20 employees, growing into a global telecommunications leader, employing over 17 500 individuals representing more than 70 nationalities across 18 diverse markets.

“The company's network now reaches 97% of the population, providing a foundation for digital inclusion and economic empowerment. By investing in cutting-edge technologies like 4G and 5G, MTN has ensured that South Africa remains at the forefront of technological advancement,” said MTN Group president and CEO Ralph Mupita.

He highlighted a study by KPMG which showed that MTN South Africa's contribution to the country's gross domestic product was substantial, making it a key player in the national economy.

“The evolution of handsets and the proliferation of apps have democratised access to information and essential services, from financial solutions to healthcare, education and entertainment. This has been a gamechanger for individuals and businesses alike.”

MTN's influence extended far beyond South Africa, he continued, noting that, across Africa, MTN connected millions, empowering them with essential communication tools and access to vital services.

In 2023, the MTN Group achieved over R220-billion in revenue, reflecting MTN’s market leadership and the growing demand for digital services across Africa.

“This success has driven the company's market capitalisation to over R150-billion, solidifying its position as one of the continent's most valuable companies.”

Mupita said that more than 149-million people relied on MTN's network for data access, fuelling a digital transformation that was reshaping industries and societies, and MTN Mobile Money provided over 65-million individuals with access to financial services, driving financial inclusion and economic empowerment in underserved communities.

“MTN's commitment to socioeconomic development is evident everywhere,” he added, pointing to the group’s total tax contribution to governments across markets of nearly R62-billion in 2023, supporting vital public services and infrastructure development.

MTN's operations also generated sabout R159-billion in economic value, creating jobs, stimulating economic activity and fostering digital innovation.

“From the outset, the Group has been driven to make a social impact. Launched in 2001, the first MTN Foundation had a yearly budget of R22-million. In 2023, MTN spent ten times that – R220-million – in corporate social responsibility across markets, with a special focus on developing digital skills to enable the digital economy,” he said.

Further, both MTN Group and MTN South Africa have achieved Level 1 broad-based black economic empowerment status, underscoring their commitment to diversity, inclusion and social transformation.

“MTN's dedication to giving back is embodied in the yearly ‘21 Days of Y'ello Care’ initiative, which has been extended to 30 days this year to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary. Kicking off on June 1, 2024, under the theme ‘Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow: Education for Rural and Remote Communities’, this initiative mobilises MTN employees across the continent to dedicate their time and resources to enhance educational opportunities.”

This year, he said, the focus was on bridging the educational divide in rural and remote areas, providing digital learning tools, and supporting educational infrastructure to empower the next generation of leaders within these communities.

“MTN's 30-year journey is a testament to the transformative power of technology and the unwavering spirit of innovation. Looking to the future, MTN remains dedicated to bridging the digital divide, empowering individuals and communities and driving Africa's sustainable and inclusive progress through cutting-edge digital solutions.

“As we reflect on this significant milestone, we express our sincere gratitude to all our stakeholders, past and present, across multiple jurisdictions, for their support. We could not have achieved this remarkable success without you,” Mupita concluded.