MTN CEO Calls for Urgent Action to Bridge Africa’s Digital Inclusion Gap
Speaking on the state of connectivity across the continent, Mupita noted that out of Africa’s 300 million mobile subscribers, only 130 million currently use 4G networks, underscoring a significant gap between coverage availability and actual digital participation.
The Ministry of ICT and Innovation in Rwanda has amplified a key message from Ralph Mupita, President and CEO of MTN Group, emphasizing that while Africa has made commendable progress in expanding network coverage, true digital inclusion remains a pressing challenge.
Speaking on the state of connectivity across the continent, Mupita noted that out of Africa’s 300 million mobile subscribers, only 130 million currently use 4G networks, underscoring a significant gap between coverage availability and actual digital participation. This disparity, he explained, stems from ongoing barriers such as the high cost of data and devices, limited access to relevant local content, and the need for progressive regulatory reforms to foster equitable digital access.
Mupita’s remarks, shared by Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation, align with Rwanda’s broader commitment to advancing inclusive digital transformation—a vision that prioritizes affordability, accessibility, and innovation for all citizens. The call to action reflects a growing consensus among African leaders that expanding network infrastructure alone is not enough; bridging the digital divide requires collaborative policies, local content creation, and sustainable affordability strategies to ensure that every African can fully participate in the continent’s digital economy.
