MTN Group posted excellent operational and financial results for 2025, delivering significantly on our Ambition 2025 strategy and transitioning to Ambition 2030 priorities to capture value from the attractive structural growth opportunities brought about by accelerated data adoption and financial inclusion across Africa.

We reported very strong commercial outcomes led by MTN Nigeria and MTN Ghana; a resilient performance from MTN South Africa; robust free cash flow; improved return generation; and a 45% jump in the dividend.

We also unveiled an enhanced shareholder remuneration framework, including a R6 billion share buyback programme, and re-affirmed our medium-term guidance, updating our return and leverage metrics.

“The Group’s overall performance in 2025 was excellent. In the final year of our Ambition 2025 strategy, we were proud to have exceeded the 300 million customers milestone in line with our priority to deepen digital and financial inclusion,” said MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita.

At 31 December 2025 across 16 markets, we served more than 307 million voice, 172 million data and 70 million Mobile Money customers. Increases were supported by diligent commercial execution as well as sustained investment of R38 billion to enhance the capacity, coverage and quality of our networks and platforms.

MTN’s data traffic accelerated by 27%, with average monthly data use per customer up at 12.5GB from 10.8GB. We continued to scale our fintech platform, growing the ecosystem and benefiting from greater customer take-up of more advanced services. This supported a 15% increase in the volume of transactions to more than 23 billion in the year, with total transaction value topping US$500 billion.

In line with our commitment to create shared value, we contributed approximately R150 billion in economic and social value across Africa; expanded broadband coverage to more than 94% of the population; and cut the cost of data to communicate for customers by an average 14%. Our work with communities, nation states and other stakeholders led to the achievement of our strongest reputation and trust scores since the launch of our Reputation Index Survey in 2019.

Underpinned by improved macroeconomic conditions, the Group increased service revenue by nearly a quarter to R218 billion. In constant-currency terms MTN Nigeria and MTN Ghana – which announced results in late February – lifted service revenue by 54.9% and 35.9% respectively. MTN SA increased service revenue by 2.0%, demonstrating operational resilience and sustained commercial momentum as it navigated the challenges of a mature and competitive market.

At R98.5 billion, earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (before once-off items) were up by more than a third in constant currency. This was supported by expense efficiencies of R3.6 billion in the year. Basic earnings per share (EPS) swung from a loss in 2024 to a profit in 2025 and adjusted headline EPS increased by 67%.

With a sustained healthy financial position and balance sheet flexibility, MTN declared a dividend of 500 cents per share from 345 cents in 2024, comfortably outstripping the minimum 370 cents the Board of Directors had anticipated.

The Group also announced an evolution of strategy, unveiling Ambition 2030, which streamlines our execution approach into three principal platforms of choice for consumers, homes and businesses: Connectivity; Fintech; and Digital Infrastructure. Through the strategy, we are energised to provide the leading customer experience, leveraging AI for growth and creating shared value.

While remaining vigilant to evolving risks in global geopolitics, Mupita said Ambition 2030 embodied the right framework to sustain MTN’s medium-term growth and value-creation journey: “We are hugely excited about Africa’s potential and are well positioned to leverage our scale, footprint and brand leadership to capture the significant structural growth opportunities identified. We are committed to accelerate our impact and empower the people, businesses and nation states we serve.”

For more detailed information, see our announcement on the JSE’s Stock Exchange News Service here.

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Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026 once again served as the world’s most influential gathering for the mobile and digital technology ecosystem. For MTN Group, the event provided a high-level platform to advance strategic partnerships, engage policymakers, showcase innovation across its markets, and reinforce its leadership in Africa1s digital transformation. Across four days of engagements in Barcelona, MTN’s presence focused on accelerating Africa’s digital future through Al-driven networks, digital inclusion, financial ecosystem expansion, infrastructure investment, and strategic industry collaboration.

Global Themes at MWC Barcelona 2026

MWC Barcelona 2026 was defined by a strong focus on the next phase of digital transformation, with discussions centered around artificial intelligence, intelligent networks, digital infrastructure, and the need to close the global digital usage gap. Across panels, leadership dialogues, and industry announcements, a common theme emerged: connectivity alone is no longer enough. The next phase of growth will be driven by Al enabled networks, affordable access to devices, trusted digital financial ecosystems, and strong collaboration between industry leaders, policymakers, and technology partners.

Against this backdrop, MTN Group’s participation throughout the week reflected its strategic priorities of building intelligent connectivity, expanding financial inclusion, and strengthening Africa’s digital infrastructure.

Strategic Partnerships & Industry Collaboration

Ralph Mupita at Global Leadership panels

MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita participated in several high-level discussions during MWC Barcelona 2026, contributing perspectives on the future of connectivity, Al, and digital infrastructure.

During the keynote session “Built for What’s Next”, global telecom leaders discussed how the industry is evolving as connectivity becomes more intelligent, adaptive, and human-centric. The discussion explored how artificial intelligence, cloud-native technologies and next-generation infrastructure are reshaping both network operations and digital experiences.

The session brought together senior industry leaders including executives from Jio Platforms, TIM, Turkcell, Colt Technology Services and global policymakers, highlighting the global scale of the transformation underway.

Ralph Mupita also participated in the GSMA Ministerial Programme session “Unlocking Al Readiness Globally.” The discussion examined how governments and industry can collaborate to accelerate Al adoption, build the right regulatory frameworks, and create the  enabling conditions required  for  innovation  and  investment  across regions.

The Africa Pavilion: A Landmark Moment for the Continent

One of the defining moments of MWC Barcelona 2026 was the launch of the Africa Pavilion, inaugurated by Africa’s leading telecom CEOs, known as the G6, in collaboration with GSMA Africa.

MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita joined fellow industry leaders to officially open the pavilion, which represents the first coordinated platform dedicated to showcasing Africa’s digital innovation and telecom ecosystem at the world’s largest mobile industry event.

The initiative highlights a collective commitment from Africa’s telecom leaders to accelerate digital development through:

• Expanding rural connectivity
• Increasing smartphone affordability
• Scaling digital financial services
• Developing African-centric Al capabilities
• Strengthening digital infrastructure

The pavilion generated strong engagement from global stakeholders and was widely seen as an important step in elevating Africa’s digital ecosystem on the global stage.

In addition to the inauguration ceremony, MTN was strongly represented at the Africa Pavilion throughout the event. The pavilion served as a focal point for African innovation and collaboration, hosting discussions with policymakers, industry partners, and global stakeholders.

The official ribbon cutting marked the launch of the pavilion, reinforcing the collective ambition of Africa’s telecom leaders to showcase the continent’s digital ecosystem on the global stage.

 The G6 leadership group also convened during MWC Barcelona to launch two important industry initiatives focused on smartphone affordability and Al language innovation, reinforcing the role of African operators in shaping the continent’s digital future.

Connectivity for Displaced  Communities

Another important milestone during MWC Barcelona was the announcement of a multi-year partnership between MTN Group and UNHCR.

The collaboration aims to expand meaningful connectivity for refugees, internally displaced persons, and host communities across Africa. The partnership will focus on improving access to connectivity, mobile money services, digital skills, and digital identity solutions in regions hosting displaced populations.

“At MTN, we believe everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. Connectivity is not a privilege; it is foundational to dignity, protection and economic participation. When people are forced to flee, digital access becomes critical, it keeps families connected, enables access to assistance, and restores agency. This partnership reflects our conviction that inclusion must be intentional and systemic, especially for the most vulnerable.” – Nompilo Morafo, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, MTN Group

“For displaced communities, digital access is essential to protection, resilience and opportunity. It allows people to receive lifesaving information, connect with support networks and rebuild their futures. MTN’s reach and scale across Africa make this collaboration a significant step toward closing the connectivity gap for millions.”- Kelly T. Clements UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner

The initiative aligns with the broader Connectivity for Refugees initiative, which aims to connect 20 million displaced people by 2030.

The MTN stand also welcomed several high-level visitors during the week, including the Minister of Communications of Syria, who met with MTN leadership to discuss digital infrastructure development and opportunities for international collaboration in the evolving telecom landscape.

Closing the Digital Usage gap

A major theme across MTN’s engagements during MWC Barcelona was addressing Africa’s mobile internet usage gap, where millions remain offline despite living within broadband coverage.

As part of the GSMA Handset Affordability Coalition, MTN joined other industry leaders and global partners in launching pilots to introduce affordable entry-level 4G smartphones across six African countries:

• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Ethiopia
• Nigeria
• Rwanda
• Tanzania
• Uganda

The initiative aims to bring sub-$40 smartphones to market, helping unlock mobile internet access for millions of people who currently cannot afford connected devices.

“Affordable smartphones are the gateway to digital and financial inclusion, economic opportunity and innovation. 3.1 billion people have mobile coverage but are not connected to the mobile internet. Together with the G6 group of leading African operators, we are sending a clear demand signal to bring low-cost 4G devices to market. In a global context of rising memory costs, governments have an important role in bridging the usage gap. Removing taxes and import duties on entry-level 4G smartphones will be critical to achieving scale.” – Vivek Badrinath – Director General GSMA

By combining affordable devices with infrastructure investment and supportive regulatory policies, the coalition seeks to accelerate digital adoption and economic participation across Africa.

MTN and Hauwei expand strategic cooperation

One of the key announcements during the week was the signing of a Strategic Memorandum of Understanding between MTN Group and Huawei. The agreement marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration around next-generation network evolution and intelligent infrastructure.

The partnership focuses on several priority areas including Al-driven network operations, home broadband expansion, digital infrastructure development, data monetization, and ESG initiatives.

A central of the collaboration is the evolution toward Level 4 Autonomous Networks (AN L4). Through the introduction of Agentic Networks powered by Al copilots and intelligent agents, MTN and Huawei aim to transform network management from traditional human-driven operations to autonomous systems capable of closed-loop optimization across planning, deployment, and operations.

The agreement also includes joint innovation through the Huawei-MTN Technology Innovation Lab in South Africa, enabling new solutions to progress from proof-of-concept to pilot and large-scale commercial deployment.

 This collaboration reflects MTN’s strategic commitment to Al-enabled network transformation and the development of Africa’s next generation digital infrastructure.

Industry recognation and network leadership

Opensignal Awards Confirm MTN Network Leadership

During MWC Barcelona, MTN1s strong network performance was recognized by Opensignal, whose latest South Africa Mobile Network Experience Report confirmed the operator’s leadership in user experience.

MTN secured 11 out of 15 awards, including:

• All Overall Experience awards
• Four of five 5G Experience awards
• The 5G Availability award
• A shared Reliability Experience award

The results underline MTN’s continued investment in network quality and customer experience as mobile data demand accelerates across South Africa.

Mobile data traffic continues to grow rapidly across the market. Between the first half of 2024 and the first half of 2025, MTN recorded a 23% increase in mobile data traffic, reflecting the growing importance of mobile connectivity for everyday digital services.

Speedtest Awards for MTN Ghana and MTN Nigeria

Further recognition came through Ookla Speedtest Awards, where multiple MTN markets were honored for network performance.

MTN Ghana was recognized as:

• Fastest Mobile Network in Ghana
• Best Fixed Network in Ghana
• Top Connectivity Performance in Western Africa

Meanwhile, MTN Nigeria received Speedtest Awards for:

• Fastest 5G Network in Western Africa
• Best Mobile Network in Nigeria
• Best Mobile Video Experience in Nigeria

 These awards highlight the Group’s continued investment in both mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure across its markets.

Policy engagement and strategic dialogue

MWC Barcelona also provided an opportunity for MTN leadership to engage directly with policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders on the future of Africa’s digital economy.

 A notable moment during the week was a leadership exchange between MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita and South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, focusing on the policy environment required to accelerate digital growth, infrastructure investment, and innovation across the continent.

MTN’s delegation also participated in broader GSMA discussions on Al, digital infrastructure, and the policy frameworks required to close Africa’s digital usage gap.

At the opening dinner of MWC Barcelona, Ralph Mupita met with the King of Spain and the President of Spain in his role as Deputy Chairman of the GSMA, highlighting MTN’s position within global industry leadership.

Advancing  Inclusive Digital Financial Ecosystems

Financial inclusion also featured prominently during MTN’s participation at the event.

During an industry panel, Serigne Dioum, MTN Group Fintech CEO, highlighted how the company’s MoMo platform is evolving from a closed wallet into an open financial ecosystem.

Interoperability is expanding across MTN’s 14 fintech markets through integrations that now include:

• Wallet-to-wallet transfers
• Wallet-to-bank connectivity
• National payment switches such as GhlPSS and NIBSS
• Cross-border remittance services
• Merchant and APl-driven ecosystems

The focus is not only on technical integration but on ensuring customer protection, transparent pricing, and sustainable partner incentives as digital financial ecosystems scale across the continent.

Fintech Leadership and Responsible Innovation

Responsible innovation is essential to the sustainable growth of digital financial services.

At MWC Barcelona, Nikiwe Tanga (Tsaagane), Group Chief Legal Officer of MTN Fintech Group, participated in the panel “Scaling Responsibly in Evolving Regulatory Environments.”

The discussion explored how fintech leaders can expand access to financial services while navigating complex and rapidly evolving regulatory landscapes. As digital financial ecosystems grow across Africa, collaboration between industry players, regulators, and policymakers remains critical to building trusted, secure, and inclusive platforms.

The session highlighted the importance of strong governance frameworks, responsible innovation, and regulatory alignment to ensure that fintech growth continues to deliver meaningful value to customers and communities.

At MTN Group Fintech, the focus remains on scaling digital financial services in a way that prioritizes trust, transparency, and customer protection while advancing financial inclusion across the continent.

Addressing The Responsible Use of Al

Mulinge Sylvia M.B.S., Chief Executive Officer of MTN Uganda, participated in a panel discussion titled “Managing the Dark Side of Al.” The discussion focused on the growing importance of governance, security, and ethical frameworks as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into digital ecosystems.

During the week of the event, Mulinge also experienced firsthand the risks associated with emerging Al technologies when a deepfake video using her likeness circulated online without her consent.

“Al is only as safe as the governance and integrity of the data it learns from. Build that foundation right, and Al becomes a powerful force for good. Get it wrong, and the consequences go beyond business, they touch livelihoods. Regulation is also a key part of the story when talking about this dark side. We must rapidly close the gap between technology advancing fast and rules catching  up slowly.” – Mulinge Sylvia M.B.S., Chief Executive Officer of MTN

Key Themes From MWC Barcelona 2026

Several themes shaped MTN’s engagements throughout the week:

Artificial Intelligence and Agentic Networks

• Al-driven network intelligence and autonomous operations are becoming central to the next generation  of  telecom infrastructure.

Digital Inclusion & Affordable Devices

• Closing the usage gap through affordable smartphones remains critical to expanding Africa’s digital economy.

Infrastructure & Data Monetization

• Investment in fiber, data centers, and next-generation connectivity platforms is essential for scaling Al and digital services.

 Open Financial Ecosystems

• Interoperable digital finance platforms are unlocking broader access to financial services.

 Humanitarian Connectivity

• Digital access is increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure for vulnerable populations.

“As I reflect on our own strategy at MTN, a couple of key takeaways stand out. First, we have set the right strategy for the next three to five years as we advance our ‘One MTN, Three Platforms’ approach: an intelligent connectivity business, a fintech business transforming to meet the needs of our customers, and digital infrastructure as a core pillar of our strategy, with continued investment in fiber, data centres, and towers – all increasingly infused with Al as it continues to evolve.” – Ralph Mupita, Group President & CEO, MTN

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MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita has met with Syrian Arab Republic Minister of Communications and Information Technology His Excellency Abdulsalam Haykal on the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

The two parties formalised an agreement to regularise MTN’s exit from Syria, with the intention that both sides implement the agreement imminently.

In August 2021, MTN Group announced its decision to abandon the MTN operation in Syria given regulatory actions and demands that made operating in the country untenable.

MTN first announced plans to exit the Middle East in 2020, as part of a strategy to focus on its African operations. The Group finalised its exit from Yemen in 2021 and from Afghanistan in 2024. It is still seeking to exit its 49% investment in Iran, but this has been complicated by US sanctions.

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MTN Group signed a multi-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to advance meaningful connectivity and digital inclusion for refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), asylum seekers and host communities across MTN’s markets. 

Announcing the partnership, Nompilo Morafo, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at MTN Group, said: “At MTN, we believe everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life”. Connectivity is not a privilege; it is foundational to dignity, protection and economic participation. When people are forced to flee, digital access becomes critical, it keeps families connected, enables access to assistance, and restores agency. This partnership reflects our conviction that inclusion must be intentional and systemic, especially for the most vulnerable. 

Kelly T. Clements, UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner, added: “For displaced communities, digital access is essential to protection, resilience and opportunity. It allows people to receive lifesaving information, connect with support networks and rebuild their futures. MTN’s reach and scale across Africa make this collaboration a significant step toward closing the connectivity gap for millions.” 

The partnership underscores a broader reality: in an increasingly digital world, connectivity is not secondary to humanitarian response, it is central to it. The agreement recognises a shifting humanitarian landscape across sub-Saharan Africa, where conflict, economic shocks and climate-related disasters continue to drive large-scale displacement. More than 20 million displaced people reside in markets where MTN operates. For many, exclusion is compounded by systemic digital barriers which include lack of recognised identification, unaffordable devices and data, limited broadband coverage, language constraints and low digital literacy. Without reliable connectivity, access to protection updates, humanitarian assistance, education, financial services and livelihood opportunities is severely constrained. 

MTN and UNHCR are committed to making connectivity more affordable and accessible in refugee-hosting areas, expand resilient network infrastructure, and advance digital and financial inclusion through mobile money, remittance enablement and digital skills development. The partnership will also support pathways that address identity and literacy gaps, recognising that documentation and capability are often the first barriers to meaningful participation in the digital economy. 

Beyond service provision, the collaboration aims to catalyse broader ecosystem change by mobilising funding and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships that deliver measurable socio-economic impact. Implementation is expected to begin in Rwanda, Uganda and South Sudan, with a structured roadmap to scale across additional MTN markets hosting significant displaced populations. This collaboration is anchored in the ambitions of the Connectivity for Refugees initiative, that brings together international organizations, public and private sector actors towards a goal of advancing connectivity for 20 million forcibly displaced people by 2030.

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MTN will participate in MWC Barcelona 2026 from 2 to 5 March at Fira Gran Via in Barcelona, joining global industry leaders, governments and investors as the sector shapes the next phase of digital infrastructure and services. Convened by the GSMA, MWC Barcelona 2026 marks the event’s 20th edition in Barcelona and remains the sector’s most influential gathering on connectivity and the digital economy.

For the first time at MWC Barcelona, MTN will exhibit from its own stand in Hall 4, providing a dedicated space for leadership engagement on the infrastructure, policy and partnership priorities shaping Africa’s digital and AI readiness.

With the event theme, “The IQ Era,” MWC Barcelona 2026 will spotlight AI-powered connectivity, next-generation networks and the systems that make digital transformation durable, secure and scalable. For Africa, AI readiness will be determined by fundamentals that can be built, financed and governed: resilient networks and supporting infrastructure, affordable access, relevant skills, and policy and regulatory certainty that supports long-term investment. MTN’s participation reflects its continued focus on strengthening these foundations through sustained network investment, expanding digital and financial services, and supporting partnerships that extend reach and reduce barriers to inclusion.

Leading the MTN delegation, Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita, in his capacity as Deputy Chair of the GSMA, will engage in high-level discussions on the enabling role of telecommunications in AI ecosystems. His participation in leadership engagements during the week will focus on the infrastructure and enabling frameworks required for responsible AI adoption at scale, particularly in emerging markets.

MTN’s broader executive team will contribute to specialised dialogues on priorities central to Africa’s digital future, including fintech innovation, digital trust and online safety, and the partnership models needed to accelerate coverage, strengthen resilience and build confidence in digital platforms.

MTN invites partners, investors, media and stakeholders attending MWC Barcelona 2026 to connect with the team in Hall 4 to engage on how Africa’s digital future is being built, and the practical collaboration required to ensure the AI era broadens opportunity rather than widening divides.

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MTN Group announced today that the board of IHS Towers has accepted an offer of US$8.50 a share in a transaction that would see MTN increasing its shareholding to 100%. The potential transaction is subject to various approvals and the delisting of IHS from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Upon the completion of IHS’s announced disposals (on 11 February and 17 February 2026) of its Latin American assets, it is intended that MTN will acquire 100% of IHS’s remaining business.

IHS is one of the world’s largest tower companies, with nearly 29 000 high-quality towers in Africa serving various mobile network operators in five key MTN markets.

The proposed transaction, which follows discussions noted on 5 February 2026, marks an important step to unlock compelling value for MTN and strengthen and reintegrate its ownership of critical digital infrastructure across Africa. For IHS shareholders, it provides them with an attractive opportunity to crystallise value.

The funding for the proposed transaction of the remaining shares MTN does not already own, for a consideration of some US$2.2 billion, will be through cash of approximately US$1.1 billion on IHS’s balance sheet, along with available liquidity and debt from MTN.

MTN has approximately 24.7% shareholding in IHS. As part of the transaction, it intends to take the company private through the acquisition of all outstanding shares it does not own, pursuant to a cash merger.

By reintegrating the tower assets, MTN will be able to internalise the margin currently paid to IHS, benefit from current and future incremental third-party revenues, improve cost predictability and unlock significant long-term value embedded in its existing investment.

“This proposed transaction is a pivotal step in further strengthening MTN Group’s strategic and financial position for a future where digital infrastructure will become ever more essential to Africa’s growth and development,” saidMTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita. “This transaction gives us a unique opportunity to buy back our towers and strengthen our ability to be partners for progress to the nation states in which we operate.”

“For IHS customers and partners across the continent, we commit to continuing high standards of service and the right governance of what is the largest standalone and integrated tower company in Africa, enabled by the excellent people within IHS.”

Through this transaction, shareholders of IHS will receive US$8.50 per share. This translates to an 9.7% premium to the 30-day volume-weighted average price as at 4 February 2026 (the last day of trading before the release of MTN’s cautionary announcement) on the NYSE, enabling them to unlock the value of their investment.

Long-term IHS shareholder Wendel has provided a letter of support to vote in favour of the transaction and will receive full liquidity on its shares upon closing. With support from Wendel (and certain affiliates) and MTN being able to vote at a general meeting, ~40% has already been secured of a minimum two-thirds approval of voting shareholders.

IHS Chairman and CEO Sam Dawish commented: “The proposed transaction deepens our long-standing partnership with MTN as it combines Africa’s largest mobile network operator with one of its largest digital infrastructure platforms and underscores the strong connection between IHS Towers and the African continent.”

In structuring this transaction, MTN remains focused on disciplined capital allocation inclusive of shareholder remuneration going forward. No new equity issuance will be required at the MTN Group level and the funding plan allows for a short-term increase in leverage. The transaction is forecast to be accretive to net income and cash flow.

The proposed transaction is subject to IHS shareholder approval, regulatory approvals in the relevant markets and customary closing conditions.

Link to SENS

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MTN, together with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and its strategic partners, has announced the winners of the 2025 Africa PachiPanda Challenge, concluding a continent-wide search for scalable, youth-led environmental enterprises driving Africa’s green economy.

Hosted at the MTN Innovation Centre in Johannesburg this week, the finale marked the culmination of a highly competitive process that attracted 2,484 youth-led small and medium enterprises from across multiple African markets. Guided by the theme, “Nourishing Tomorrow: Innovation for Food, Energy and Water Security,” the Challenge spotlighted commercially viable solutions addressing systemic environmental pressures while advancing inclusive, low-carbon growth.

Arnaud Njita of Cameroon won first place for nTron STEM Kit, converting plastic waste into 3D-printing filament for STEM education; Ndaman Joshua Olayinka from Nigeria secured second for BuyScrap, a tech-enabled e-waste recycling platform; and Bill Agha of Cameroon placed third for AgriCheck, a climate-smart digital agriculture solution. Together, they reflect the strength of youth-led innovation driving circular economy and climate resilience across Africa.

“Africa’s youth are not just responding to the climate challenge – they are shaping the solutions,” said Nompilo Morafo, MTN Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer. “Through the PachiPanda Challenge, MTN is backing youth-led innovation that can scale environmental impact and unlock economic opportunities that could help enable long-term resilience for communities across the continent.”

The Challenge reflects the scale of opportunity within Africa’s climate economy. Agriculture remains central to employment yet constrained by land degradation, limited irrigation and climate volatility. At the same time, Africa’s renewable energy and water potential remains significantly underdeveloped. Innovation across food systems, energy access and water security therefore represents both a climate imperative and a strategic growth frontier.

The PachiPanda Challenge is a flagship pan-African platform for youth-led environmental innovation. The programme goes beyond ideation, equipping entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship and governance support to build investment-ready enterprises that create jobs and measurable environmental outcomes.

“What we have seen confirms that this is far more than a competition. It is a statement of intent. It shows that Africa is not waiting to be rescued by ideas from elsewhere, but is actively generating its own solutions—solutions rooted in local realities, driven by African entrepreneurs, and designed to deliver both economic value and measurable benefits for nature and communities” Alain Ononino, WWF Cameroon Country Director.

A distinguished panel of industry experts selected the winners from a diverse group of finalists spanning clean energy, food security ecosystems, circular economy solutions and waste-to-value innovations. The standard of innovation reflected the depth of Africa’s emerging climate-tech pipeline.

Jane Mammatt, ESG, Sustainability and Climate Change Partner at Deloitte, formed part of the expert judging panel “The PachiPanda Challenge highlights the growing pipeline of African innovators who are developing practical solutions to complex environmental challenges. Through the masterclass and ongoing mentoring, our focus has been to help participants strengthen their business models, governance and investment readiness, so that these ventures are well positioned to scale and deliver meaningful environmental and social impact.”

Flame Innovation Zambia, led by Agatha Mumba Mwansa, received both the Thematic Excellence Award and the Ubuntu Award for transforming waste materials into clean-energy alternatives such as fire blocks and eco-friendly household products, reducing deforestation and fuel costs while advancing circular economy principles. The Baobab Growth Award was presented to EcoDrop Project from Uganda founded by Kanyesige Pascal, Kigozi Martin Koyamu and Nyesiga Promise, for its incentive-based recycling model that rewards communities with cash, data or airtime for responsible plastic disposal, driving behavioural change at scale.

Winners will receive MTN funding to accelerate the next phase of growth, complemented by structured post-competition mentoring from Deloitte to strengthen business models, governance and investment readiness. The programme concludes with an executive immersion hosted by Wits Business School, providing finalists with exposure to leadership perspectives, enterprise development frameworks and innovation ecosystems to support scale.

By enabling youth-driven climate innovation, MTN and its partners are not only addressing environmental risk but also strengthening local ecosystems and contributing to Africa’s transition toward a more resilient, low-carbon future.

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Nourishing Tomorrow: Innovations for Food, Energy, and Water Security

Across Africa, a new generation of eco-entrepreneurs is proving that innovation rooted in local realities can unlock continental transformation. Guided by the 2025 theme, “Nourishing Tomorrow: Innovations for Food, Energy, and Water Security, the 2025 Africa PachiPanda Challenge has once again illuminated the extraordinary potential of young Africans designing solutions local environmental challenges. By placing youth-led innovation at the centre of climate action, the Challenge contributes to building Africa’s green economy and accelerating inclusive, low-carbon growth.

Africa is the youngest continent in the world, yet its youth remain among the most vulnerable to climate shocks, unemployment and systemic inequality. At the same time, they are powerful agents of change – closest to the challenges, deeply invested in their communities, and uniquely positioned to shape sustainable solutions. MTN recognises that empowering young people is both a social imperative and a critical driver of long-term sustainability and resilience across the continent.

Designed to empower Africa’s next generation of environmental leaders, the Africa PachiPanda Challenge equips young eco-innovators aged 18–35 with the tools, mentorship and networks needed to scale climate-smart solutions. Through this initiative, MTN, together with World Wide Fund (WWF) and others, reinforces its commitment to supporting ideas that deliver lasting value for the environment and local communities. While Africa contributes the least to global greenhouse-gas emissions, it is disproportionately affected by climate change. MTN believes that those most impacted must be at the centre of designing solutions, and that digital connectivity, entrepreneurship and access to markets are critical enablers of a just and inclusive green transition.

The programme continues to grow in both reach and impact. Since its inception, the continental edition has expanded from Zambia, South Africa, Nigeria and Cameroon in 2024 to now include Uganda in 2025, further strengthening regional collaboration and deepening its pan-African footprint. Applications have increased by approximately 35–40%, and the number of eco-entrepreneurs developed through structured training, mentorship and pitch preparation has almost doubled to more than 150 participants across participating markets.

For MTN, PachiPanda demonstrates how digital connectivity and targeted partnerships can strategically enable scalable green enterprises, strengthen local innovation ecosystems and deliver shared value across markets, while positioning MTN as a credible catalyst of Africa’s green economy and equipping youth innovators to attract capital, partnerships and policy-relevant exposure beyond the programme. The 2025 OpCo champions exemplify how creativity, technology and purpose can converge to solve pressing environmental challenges.

In Nigeria, OneGrid Energies is tackling pollution while expanding access to clean energy in underserved communities. By upcycling waste plastic bottles and used lithium-ion batteries into affordable lanterns, the innovation reduces environmental harm while meeting essential household lighting needs. This circular approach is strengthened by solar-powered charging stations operated by rural women, creating local energy hubs that combine environmental impact with economic empowerment.

In South Africa, CarbonSmart Solutions Africa, founded by Wendile Mpofu, is reimagining sustainable agriculture by helping smallholder farmers improve soil health while earning verified carbon credits. Using biochar and advanced digital monitoring tools supported by IoT technology, the enterprise enables transparent measurement of carbon sequestration. Its intuitive app gives farmers access to soil data, training and carbon market insights, creating an inclusive pathway for rural communities to benefit from global climate finance.

Uganda’s FarmGate Digital, led by Ruth Kyobutungi, is transforming food security through data-driven agriculture. The platform aggregates real farm-gate prices from local markets and provides predictive insights that help farmers plan when to harvest, store and sell their produce. By reducing income losses, preventing food spoilage and improving market transparency, FarmGate strengthens food systems while promoting more efficient and environmentally responsible agricultural practices.

In Zambia, McKingtorch Zambia, founded by Racheal Tembo, addresses the growing challenge of plastic pollution by converting waste into durable, eco-friendly products such as bags and slippers. Beyond reducing environmental hazards and waste-management backlogs, the enterprise creates green jobs and skills development opportunities, particularly for youth and women. Its work demonstrates how community-based recycling solutions can deliver both environmental protection and inclusive economic value.

Cameroon’s first-place PachiPanda champion strengthens this pan-African innovation narrative through a solution that links sustainability with education. nTron STEM Kit transforms plastic waste into 3D-printing filaments used to create hands-on STEM kits that introduce young people to electronics, robotics and practical problem solving. By combining waste reduction with skills development, the innovation diverts plastic from the environment while equipping the next generation to participate in Africa’s green and digital economy.   

Crucially, the impact of the PachiPanda Challenge extends well beyond the finale. Alumni innovations have translated into tangible, real-world outcomes across food security, education, health and clean energy — preventing more than 120 tonnes of food waste through solar-powered cold-chain solutions, expanding digital learning access to over 15,000 underserved learners, improving women’s health through affordable menstrual-care ecosystems, and delivering clean energy and STEM skills through circular, e-waste-based models. Several innovators have progressed onto international platforms, including African Union-linked initiatives, unlocking further funding, mentorship and market access to scale their impact.

Together, these innovators demonstrate how youth-led entrepreneurship can power progress across Africa — supporting livelihoods, protecting ecosystems and building resilience in communities most exposed to climate risk. Their solutions reflect our belief that sustainable development is achieved by investing in people and purpose, and by enabling high-potential enterprises to transition from early-stage ideas into scalable, market-ready businesses.

As part of the 2025 edition, MTN has strengthened the post-competition value proposition to accelerate real-world impact. Finalists will participate in an enhanced, immersive Masterclass hosted in partnership with Deloitte on 9 February, focused on business readiness, governance, scaling strategies and investor engagement.

Winners will receive funding from MTN to support the next phase of their growth, complemented by structured post-competition mentoring from Deloitte. This extended support model reflects MTN’s commitment to moving beyond recognition alone, towards sustained enterprise development and long-term impact creation. Immediately after the finale, the 2025 finalists will participate in an immersive learning experience hosted by Wits Business School, offering a carefully curated programme that blends history, academia and culture. The experience will include guided engagements at the iconic Wits Planetarium, the Origins Centre, and Wits Business School, providing participants with a deeper appreciation of Africa’s intellectual heritage, scientific inquiry and leadership traditions

As we celebrate their national victories, we also look ahead as they prepare to compete at the Africa PachiPanda Challenge Finals, to be hosted at MTN Group Headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 10 February 2026. The Finals will mark not only the culmination of the 2025 Challenge, but a milestone in MTN’s broader effort to catalyse Africa’s green economy through youth-led innovation, partnerships and digital enablement.

Their journeys are a testament to the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and a reminder that Africa’s sustainable future will be shaped by those bold enough to build it, today.

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MTN Group kicked off its annual Global Leadership Gathering (GLG) – themed “3 Platforms, One MTN” – convening more than 400 senior leaders from across the Group’s markets for a three-day leadership forum running from Monday, 2 February to Wednesday, 4 February 2026. 

Hosted by Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita, and his Executive Team, the GLG brings together MTN’s senior leadership at a time of rapid change across the telecommunications and digital services sector. As customer expectations rise, regulatory requirements become more exacting and technology continues to reshape how services are delivered, sustained performance increasingly depends on clear leadership alignment, disciplined execution and consistent decision-making across diverse markets. 

The GLG is a focused leadership forum that enables MTN’s most senior decision-makers to align on priorities, assess performance and reinforce the standards of leadership, accountability and execution required to deliver consistently across a complex operating environment. 

“Our role is to enable Africa’s progress by connecting people, businesses and communities, and by extending digital and financial inclusion in the markets we serve. That responsibility demands leaders who work as one MTN in how we set priorities, make decisions and execute with discipline and consistency,” said Mupita. He noted that the gathering provides a critical opportunity for leaders to strengthen alignment on delivery priorities and leadership accountability across the Group. 

Over the three days, leaders will engage in a structured programme of leadership dialogue, facilitated discussions and expert-led sessions. The agenda is designed to support rigorous conversation on customer experience, execution discipline and leadership effectiveness, with a focus on driving consistency and quality of delivery across MTN’s footprint. 

Leadership effectiveness and culture form an integral part of the gathering. The GLG reinforces MTN’s Live Y’ello culture, which provides a shared foundation for leadership behaviour, decision-making and accountability across the Group. Anchored in MTN’s purpose and values, this cultural framework supports cohesive leadership practice and strengthens organisational capability across markets. 

The programme also brings an outside-in perspective through a range of global and regional voices spanning geopolitics, digital transformation, leadership and technology. Their contributions are intended to challenge perspectives, deepen shared understanding of the external environment and sharpen leadership dialogue on performance, priorities and execution across the Group. 

In a sector shaped by rising expectations and rapid change, MTN’s Global Leadership Gathering underscores the Group’s focus on leadership alignment, execution discipline and organisational readiness, strengthening the conditions for consistent delivery and long-term value creation across its markets. 

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MTN Group has announced the appointment of Shoyinka Shodunke as Executive: IT Core Design and Delivery, effective 1 March 2026.

Shoyinka brings more than 29 years of experience in technology leadership, digital transformation and innovation across Africa’s telecommunications sector. His career spans several senior roles, including Director of Technology at Vodafone Ghana, Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) at MTN Cameroon, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at MTN Zambia, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at MTN South Africa and General Manager: Architecture for the MTN Shared Services Hub in Southeast Africa.

He currently serves as CIO for MTN Nigeria, where he has led large-scale digital initiatives impacting more than 80 million subscribers and overseen a technology ecosystem comprising over 350 professionals.

Shoyinka is recognised for a leadership approach anchored in adaptive intelligence, resilient system design and collaborative value creation. His work has focused on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance human creativity, strengthen system resilience and drive innovation at scale.

In 2025, he was named MTN Group CIO of the Year for his role in advancing one of Africa’s most ambitious digital transformations, supporting MTN’s evolution from a traditional telecommunications operator into an AI-enabled technology organisation. He also received the Tech Champion in Telecoms and CIO of the Year awards at the CIO and C-Suite Awards Africa.

His academic background includes an Advanced Management Programme (AMP) at Harvard Business School, an MBA from the University of Northampton, a Postgraduate Diploma in Global Management from the University of Salford Manchester, and a Bachelor of Technology in Mathematics and Statistics from the Federal University of Technology in Nigeria.

In his new role, Shoyinka will lead the development and execution of standardised and AI-enhanced IT architectures across MTN’s footprint. His responsibilities will include integrating AI-driven automation, predictive analytics and digital transformation initiatives to improve customer experience, operational efficiency and service agility, while accelerating innovation cycles and time-to-market.

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