MWC 2025 Day Two: Innovation, Collaboration, and the Road to a Smarter Digital Future

If day one was the warm-up, day two came in full throttle. The crowds were bigger, the traffic en-route helt heavier, and the energy inside was absolutely next level. The halls of MWC 2025 pulsed with excitement as industry leaders, innovators, and tech enthusiasts poured in, ready to experience the future of connectivity, AI, fintech, and beyond. 

Once again, the TechAfrica News team was on the ground, weaving through a jam-packed day of keynotes, exclusive product launches, and insightful conversations with industry leaders. The pace was relentless, the discussions were deeper, and the innovations were game-changing. From cutting-edge satellite solutions bridging Africa’s connectivity gaps to AI-driven breakthroughs shaping the next era of mobile technology, today was a showcase of tech in motion. 

“Day two was all about momentum—driving critical conversations on AI, telecom, and digital inclusion. The energy here is undeniable, and the partnerships forming today will shape the future of connectivity in Africa and beyond.”

-Akim Benamara, Founder and Chief Editor, TechAfrica News

As the sun sets on day two, one thing is clear—MWC 2025 isn’t just about the latest gadgets and services; it’s about shaping a digital future that’s smarter, more inclusive, and built to connect the unconnected. Stay tuned for our top takeaways, key insights, and exclusive interviews from today’s action.  

Day two at MWC 2025 was a deep dive into the intersection of AI and telecom, with keynote speakers and industry leaders unpacking how artificial intelligence is reshaping networks, automation, and customer experiences. From AI-driven network optimization to predictive analytics revolutionizing telco operations, today’s discussions made one thing clear—AI isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the backbone of the next-generation telecom industry. With operators exploring how AI can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve connectivity in underserved regions, the conversation has shifted from if AI will transform telecom to how fast it’s happening.

The day also saw major discussions, partnership and collaboration announcements aimed at pushing the boundaries of connectivity, digital inclusion, and AI-driven transformation.

GSMA, Fira Circuit, and Mobile World Capital unveiled a bold three-year partnership to establish Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as an Advanced Connectivity Innovation Centre. This initiative will transform the venue into a hub for connected and autonomous vehicles, drones, and entertainment technologies, with live demonstrations powered by GSMA Foundry.

“From game-changing partnerships to deep discussions on AI, connectivity, and digital inclusion, it’s clear that the future isn’t just being imagined—it’s being built. And Africa is not on the sidelines; we’re driving the momentum.”

– Joyce Onyeagoro, Editor, TechAfrica News

Meanwhile, the GSMA Africa team spearheaded critical discussions on fiscal policies, digital inclusion, and industry collaboration to accelerate Africa’s digital and economic growth. Key highlights included a Taxation Roundtable addressing how high taxes impact connectivity and mobile money adoption, insights from the first GSMA Digital Africa Index, which revealed the role of strong policies in driving digital development, and a session on Driving Digital Growth of Verticals in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing cross-sector partnerships, scalable solutions for MSMEs, and policy reforms. Additionally, national dialogues with delegations from Tanzania and the DRC reinforced the importance of tailored strategies for sustainable digital transformation.

Huawei introduced its AI Optical Network (AI ON) strategy, outlining how optical networks must evolve to support AI-driven industries with ultra-reliable, high-speed connectivity. Bob Chen, President of Huawei Optical Business Product Line, emphasized the need for 5A-quality connectivity, setting the stage for the next generation of AI-powered networks.

On the fintech front, Safaricom deployed Red Hat OpenShift to modernize its M-PESA infrastructure, boosting stability, agility, and scalability for one of Africa’s most significant financial platforms. With 51 million users and over $314 billion in annual transactions, M-PESA’s digital transformation will further enhance financial inclusion across the continent.

Bridging the digital divide was also a key focus, as GSMA and the N50 Project launched a new skills initiative to tackle digital poverty. With 100 fully sponsored scholarships, underserved communities will gain access to specialized training in mobile technology, ensuring that connectivity leads to real opportunities.

On the sidelines of MWC 2025 Day Two, Lacina Koné attended a high-level panel discussion on “Thriving in the Digital Economy Together,” organized by Huawei. During the session, he highlighted the critical role of regulation in shaping Africa’s digital future, stating,

“The difference between Singapore and any country in Africa is the regulation. We need to work on creating a conducive environment for the digital economy to thrive on our continent.”

– Lacina Koné, CEO, Smart Africa

His remarks underscored the urgent need for policy reforms and regulatory frameworks that foster innovation, attract investment, and drive sustainable digital transformation across Africa.

We were pleased to be part of the many significant moments unfolding at MWC 2025. Beyond meeting and interviewing industry leaders, exploring booths, and attending key sessions, we were also at the heart of major developments—gathering exclusive insights and witnessing game-changing announcements.

MTN Group and Ghana’s Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation signed a landmark MoU to advance AI development, digital skills, data governance, and cybersecurity. The 12-month agreement aligns with the ‘One Million Coders’ initiative under the John Romani Mahama administration, aimed at equipping Ghanaian youth with essential coding and software engineering skills.

The MTN building, donated to the government of Ghana, will become one of our centers of excellence for artificial intelligence and software development. We are committed to backing MTN in this endeavor, which is why we are here today to sign this MoU. This agreement will serve as the framework for our collaboration moving forward, leading up to the launch of the One Million Coders program before May 7th this year,”  

– Hon. Samuel Nartey George, MP, Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Ghana

As part of its 25th-anniversary commitments, MTN is also investing in a center of excellence for AI and software development in Ghana. MTN CEO Ralph Mupita emphasized the importance of nurturing local tech talent, ensuring young Ghanaians have global opportunities.

“We are very happy to support the building out of the digital ecosystem that will be a catalyst for growth and expansion to meet Ghana’s socio-economic objectives. We must develop our own talent, our own software engineers, and do more around coding to ensure that young people in Ghana have opportunities not only in Ghana but all over the world.”  

– Ralph Mupita, President and CEO, MTN Group

As part of our on-the-ground coverage, TechAfrica News had the exclusive opportunity to speak with Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Hon Samuel Nartey George, MP, about this pivotal partnership. Stay tuned for insights straight from the minister on what this means for Ghana’s telecom sector and the broader vision for a digitally inclusive future.

At MWC, we had an insightful interview with Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit West and Southern Africa at Ericsson, discussing Africa’s rapid digital transformation and the crucial role of network and connectivity in driving this shift. As a leading technology provider on the continent, Ericsson is actively working with operators and governments to accelerate innovation and expand digital infrastructure. We also explored how Ericsson is preparing to meet emerging ICT trends and evolving market demands, ensuring Africa remains at the forefront of the digital economy.

Stay tuned for the full video interview!

We also had a great conversation with Arun Bhikshesvaran, CEO of Radisys, about how Radisys is leveraging its success in India to drive digital transformation in Africa, recognizing the similarities in demographics and economic structures between the two regions. Arun shared how Radisys and Jio transformed connectivity in India and their strategy to bring the same impact to Africa through cost-effective, scalable solutions. We also explored their collaboration with NGIC Ghana in building a 4G/5G Neutral Host network, a project aimed at enhancing connectivity and accelerating Africa’s digital future.

Stay tuned for the full video interview!

From established global players to emerging disruptors, discover how these companies are driving advancements in telecom, media, and technology. Get an in-depth look at their products, strategies, and visions for the future. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to stay informed and inspired by the industry’s trailblazers.

As MWC 2025 progresses, Day Three is packed with high-impact discussions on the future of connectivity, AI, and 5G. Attendees can expect deep dives into the future of work, AI’s role in networks, and private network scalability challenges.

Keynote 12: Future of Work and Economic Growth (12:00 – 13:15 CET, Main Stage, Hall 4) 

A must-attend session exploring how emerging technologies are reshaping industries, employment, and economic opportunities. 

Scaling Private Networks: What Is Holding Us Back? (12:00 – 12:45 CET, Turing Stage, Hall 6)  

A focused discussion on the roadblocks hindering private network adoption and how the industry can overcome them. 

Is AI a Solution or a Challenge to Networks? (13:00 – 14:00 CET, Marconi Stage, Hall 6)  

As AI continues to reshape the telecom landscape, this session will examine its impact on network optimization, efficiency, and security. 

5G Innovations That Matter: Real-World Use Cases Driving Value (11:00 – 11:45 CET, Marconi Stage, Hall 6)  

Industry experts will showcase transformative 5G applications across sectors, demonstrating tangible benefits. 

Are We Crisis-Ready? The Potential of 5G and AI in Safety, Prediction, and Rescue (15:30 – 16:00 CET, Johnson Stage, Hall 6)  

A timely discussion on how 5G and AI can enhance disaster response, public safety, and emergency prediction systems. 

Managing the Power Surge: Can AI and Nuclear Energy Help Solve Data Center Energy Demands? (14:15 – 15:00 CET, Johnson Stage, Hall 6)