Mupita says predictable regulations, digital connectivity and regional cooperation are key to unlocking Africa’s economic potential
MTN Group President and Chief Executive Officer, Ralph Mupita, has urged African governments to establish stable and predictable policy and regulatory environments that can attract investment, stimulate economic growth and unlock the continent’s long-term potential.
Mupita made the call at the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation Winter Seminar, where he said Africa’s future development would depend less on managing migration challenges and more on creating economic opportunities that allow more people to participate meaningfully in the continent’s growth.
He stressed that governments have a major responsibility in building investor confidence by ensuring that policies are clear, consistent and supportive of business expansion.
According to him, companies are more likely to commit capital and resources to markets where regulatory systems provide certainty and encourage long-term planning.
“The future of Africa will not be determined by the borders that separate us, but by the economic opportunities that connect us. Governments must set predictable policies and regulations. Businesses will follow and allocate resources and capital.
“Together, we can build a continent where opportunity is more evenly shared and prosperity is more widely created,” Mupita said.
Migration linked to uneven economic opportunities
The seminar brought together policymakers, business leaders, diplomats, academics and civil society representatives to examine the relationship between migration, development and Africa’s economic future.
MTN sponsored the event, noting that platforms that encourage dialogue among different sectors are important for developing practical responses to the continent’s challenges.
Speaking during a panel discussion, Mupita argued that migration should not be viewed only as a crisis but as a reflection of deeper economic inequalities.
He said movement of people is often driven by differences in access to jobs, investment, skills development and economic opportunities.
“If our discussion ends with the language of crisis around migration, we will have treated the symptom and missed the deeper challenge. People move because opportunity is unevenly distributed. The defining question is whether we can build economies in which mobility is matched by opportunity,” he said.
Mupita noted that Africa’s rapidly growing population could become a major economic advantage if governments invest in education, skills development, infrastructure, financial systems and institutions capable of supporting productivity.
Digital connectivity as a driver of inclusion
The MTN chief executive highlighted digital infrastructure as one of the most important tools for expanding economic participation across Africa.
He explained that reliable connectivity can link people to education, entrepreneurship opportunities, financial services, government platforms and wider markets.
According to him, technology has the potential to help close economic gaps by providing more people with access to opportunities regardless of their location.
“MTN was born in South Africa and has grown alongside the continent. Our prosperity is inseparable from Africa’s prosperity,” Mupita said.
He added that the telecommunications company would continue supporting initiatives that encourage evidence-based discussions on issues shaping Africa’s future.
“MTN believes that Africa’s strength lies in its connectivity not only through networks, but through people, ideas and shared identity. This initiative is about building bridges, not borders,” he said.
Investment, integration needed for Africa’s transformation
Mupita’s comments come at a time when African countries are seeking increased investment to accelerate economic growth, create employment opportunities and expand digital transformation.
Governments across the continent have been working to improve investment conditions, strengthen regional trade and use technology to expand financial inclusion.
The MTN CEO said Africa’s ability to achieve sustainable prosperity would depend on building economies where opportunity is widely available and where businesses, governments and citizens can work together to create shared value.
He maintained that stronger regional integration, improved infrastructure and investor-friendly policies would be critical in positioning Africa as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.