MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita leads MTN into new territory. He confirmed the company now tests Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite partnerships to extend high-speed internet to remote and rural African regions. MTN may even act as a reseller in select markets, bringing satellite internet to enterprise customers through its established channels. Mupita emphasized the need for an even playing field. He urged regulators to treat satellite and terrestial operators equally on data privacy, spectrum allocation and other rules.
Strategic Leadership Shuffles Shape MTN’s Future
MTN Group reassigned Charles Molapisi, current CEO of MTN South Africa, back to his former position as Group Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) starting November 1. Ferdi Moolman, MTN Group’s Chief Risk Officer, will succeed him as CEO of MTN South Africa. In turn, Group CFO Tsholofelo Molefe will add responsibility for mergers and acquisitions, while Kholekile Ndamase, former M&A chief, will steward MTN’s capital allocation strategy under Molefe’s supervision.
Why Mupita’s Moves Matter
1. Connectivity Beyond Reach
By marrying satellite solutions with mobile infrastructure, MTN positions itself as a frontier-breaker. It plans to bridge connectivity gaps across underserved areas for example, places where fiber and towers still fall short.
2. Strong Internal Leadership Transitions
The Molapisi-Moolman swap signals strategic internal talent rotation. As markets grow complex, MTN prioritizes seasoned technology leadership at the group level and risk-focused leadership where national operations demand it.
3. Alignment with Ambition 2025
Both developments reinforce MTN’s broader Ambition 2025 goal: building Africa’s largest digital platform. The company strives to lead digital inclusion, fintech growth, and infrastructure innovation across the continent.
Final Thoughts
MTN’s CEO doesn’t just stick to the usual terrain he roams into satellite skies and retools leadership to meet new challenges. These bold moves underscore MTN’s commitment to widen connectivity and reinforce its operational backbone. As Africa’s digital transformation deepens, MTN stands ready one leadership change and satellite pact at a time.
