Nompilo Morafo – MTN Group.tif
MTN Group, Africa’s largest telecommunications operator, has been ranked second globally in the 2026 Ranking Digital Rights (RDR) Index, becoming the first telecommunications company headquartered in an emerging market to secure a place among the world’s top three performers.
The achievement marks a major milestone in MTN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency, governance and the protection of digital rights across its markets.
The RDR Index is widely recognised as a global benchmark for corporate accountability within the technology and telecommunications sectors.
It evaluates how companies uphold fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and privacy, through their governance structures, policies and public disclosures.
In the latest assessment, MTN recorded a score of 42 out of 100, reflecting significant progress in transparency and accountability. The company improved its global standing from sixth place in the previous ranking to second position worldwide.
Commenting on the achievement, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, , said the recognition demonstrates the Group’s deliberate commitment to advancing digital rights and responsible business practices.
“Our progress in the Ranking Digital Rights Index reflects the deliberate steps we have taken to strengthen governance, enhance transparency and embed respect for digital human rights across our operations,” she stated.
MTN’s improved performance was driven by higher scores across all three RDR categories, supported by stronger governance disclosures, the introduction of a comprehensive advertising content policy and enhanced measures to protect user data.
According to Morafo, MTN’s digital rights journey has been one of continuous growth and adaptation in response to changing technological and regulatory landscapes.
“Our journey on digital rights has been one of continuous evolution.
As the landscape changes, we are deliberately adapting our approach, drawing on lessons from our experiences across markets and strengthening how we translate commitments into practical action,” she added.
As Africa’s leading digital platform, operates across diverse and complex regulatory environments, where balancing digital inclusion with human rights responsibilities remains increasingly important.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to improving transparency and disclosure practices, embedding digital human rights principles across all its operations, strengthening governance and accountability frameworks, and aligning with evolving global standards and stakeholder expectations.
“While we are encouraged by this progress, protecting digital rights is an ongoing responsibility,” Morafo noted. “We will continue refining our approach to address emerging risks and ensure our customers remain at the centre of how we operate.”
As digital connectivity continues to expand across Africa and beyond, MTN says it remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of a modern connected life are delivered responsibly, ethically and inclusively.
