MTN CEO Calls for Unity Amid South Africa-Nigeria Tensions

Ralph Mupita, the CEO of MTN Group, urged for greater unity and stronger adherence to the rule of law across Africa in light of increasing anti-immigrant sentiments and renewed diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Nigeria. His remarks came during a migration dialogue hosted by Kgalema Motlanthe and were prompted by recent anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, which have drawn widespread criticism and threats of retaliatory actions against businesses from Nigeria.

Mupita noted that Africa's long-term prosperity depends on strengthening social cohesion and accelerating economic cooperation among countries. He highlighted the fragility of regional integration efforts, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to create a single market for goods and services.

Mupita emphasized the importance of enforcing laws to protect citizens and businesses, particularly foreign-owned enterprises, amid concerns over xenophobic violence. Despite the tensions, MTN has not experienced direct impacts on its operations in Nigeria and Ghana but remains vigilant in the evolving market landscape.