Growing tensions sparked by anti-immigrant protests in South Africa have renewed calls for stronger economic integration across Africa, with MTN Group Chief Executive Officer Ralph Mupita urging governments and citizens to embrace unity rather than division.
MTN's Pan-African Operations
Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg, Mupita addressed concerns surrounding the backlash against South African businesses operating in other African countries amid rising public anger over migration-related issues. He emphasized that many large African corporations have evolved beyond their countries of origin and now operate as truly pan-African enterprises.
According to Mupita, MTN derives less than 20 percent of its earnings from South Africa, while more than 80 percent comes from operations in other African markets. The disclosure highlights the extent to which the telecommunications giant relies on revenue generated across the continent, including major markets such as Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, and others.
Impact on Local Economies
Analysts note that Africa's rapidly expanding mobile telecommunications sector is increasingly driven by large population centres outside South Africa, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As a result, targeting multinational companies because of their headquarters location could negatively affect local economies where these firms create jobs, invest in infrastructure, and contribute to economic growth.
Call for Cooperation
Mupita also used the opportunity to advocate greater cooperation among African nations. In a message shared on LinkedIn, he stressed the importance of social cohesion, economic integration, and adherence to the rule of law as critical foundations for Africa's future development.
“The future of Africa depends on greater social solidarity, increasing economic integration and the observance of the rule of law,” he stated.
Observers say the comments underscore the need to protect pan-African businesses from political and nationalistic tensions, arguing that stronger economic ties remain essential for the continent's long-term competitiveness and shared prosperity.
