The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has emphasized the critical role of digital connectivity in achieving Africa‘s vision of a single market.
Speaking at the Africa Prosperity Dialogue (APD) 2025, he stressed that Africa’s economic integration would be impossible without significant investment in digital infrastructure.
“At MTN Ghana and the MTN family, we are particularly excited about these important conversations and are proud to play a pivotal role as Africa’s leading telecommunications provider. All discussions on delivering Africa’s single market will come to nought without investing in connectivity and integration,” Mr Blewett stated.
He highlighted key areas such as digital access, internet connectivity, digital literacy, e-commerce, and mobile banking as central to Africa’s economic future.
MTN’s commitment to digital transformation
Mr Blewett noted that MTN’s commitment aligns with its Ambition 2025 strategy, which aims to drive economic and social progress through advanced telecommunications solutions.
By investing in digital infrastructure, MTN seeks to enhance cross-border trade, financial inclusion, and access to technology, enabling African businesses and individuals to thrive.
“As a brand at the heart of Africa’s progress, this platform presents an opportunity for MTN to position itself as a valued partner, steering critical conversations and shaping our future,” he said.
MTN Ghana has been a key enabler of economic growth and financial inclusion through extensive investments in mobile connectivity and digital solutions. The company continues to bridge the digital divide by expanding access to high-speed internet and mobile money services, ensuring that businesses and individuals, regardless of location, stay connected.
Overcoming Africa’s historical challenges
Addressing policymakers and industry leaders, Mr. Blewett underscored the importance of shifting Africa’s narrative from challenges to innovation, youth empowerment, and economic resilience.
“For many years, Africa has suffered negative stereotypes such as war, disease, and famine. While the continent faces challenges, it is also vibrant, with a youthful population that, with the right skills, can drive productivity,” he noted.
He urged leaders across sectors to collaborate in the spirit of Pan-Africanism to shape the continent’s future and seize emerging opportunities.
“Our time is now. It’s a time of action, and we must move forward with that mindset. Together, in the true spirit of Pan-African cooperation, we can control and shape our narrative,” Mr. Blewett concluded.
About the Africa Prosperity Dialogue
The APD is an annual platform that brings together Africa’s leadership from both the public and private sectors to forge partnerships and accelerate the creation of the continent’s single market under the AfCFTA agreement.
It serves as a space for Africa’s political and business leaders to collaborate, deepen intra-African trade, and drive investments toward the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).