MTN CEO Warns Afrophobia Threatens Youth Jobs in Africa

Ralph Mupita, the CEO of MTN Group, expressed concerns that Afrophobia poses a significant threat to youth employment and continental unity during a dialogue at the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation. He highlighted that Africa's youth population remains the continent's greatest asset for economic opportunities.

Mupita stated that embracing the benefits of the digital economy is crucial for leveraging the youth dividend. He criticized the weakening of pan-African business initiatives, which are essential for job creation and investment.

Mupita noted that MTN's operations reflect a pan-African identity, with less than 20% of its earnings coming from South Africa, while 80% is generated from other African markets, including Nigeria and Ghana. He emphasized that Africa's future relies on stronger economic cooperation and social solidarity, urging for the establishment of legal governance institutions.

Mupita called for inclusive dialogue to address migration-related tensions and protect cross-border commerce, which is vital for achieving shared prosperity across the continent.