Africa must lead the next wave of digital innovation - MTN CEO

MTN Ghana's CEO, Stephen Blewett, highlighted Africa's potential for digital innovation. He challenged the idea that tech advancements must come from outside the continent.

Speaking at the 2025 MTN Editors' Forum in Tamale, he questioned Africa's role in the digital space. “Why do we always have to get everything from somewhere else?” he asked. He believes there’s no reason why major tech developments can’t emerge from Africa.

Blewett emphasized Africa’s youthful and entrepreneurial population as a key asset. “Our young people are hungry, capable, and understand what it takes to innovate,” he said.

To support this vision, MTN is backing the government’s 1,000 coders project. This initiative aims to equip young Ghanaians with coding and AI skills. “It’s about empowering youth with tools to create and innovate,” he added.

Heavy Investment in Digital Infrastructure

Blewett revealed that MTN Ghana has invested over $1 billion in network infrastructure over five years. For 2025 alone, $240 million is allocated for further improvements.

He explained how continuous investment is crucial for successful operations. “The day you stop spending is when challenges begin,” he stated.

MTN has launched over 5,000 new sites nationwide. Currently, 87.5% of data traffic uses 4G technology. The company also expanded its fiber infrastructure by relocating 130 km of fiber for better resilience.

Despite these efforts, Blewett noted that fiber cuts pose significant operational challenges. On average, MTN faces four fiber cuts daily across Ghana.

“Fiber cuts are a massive plague on our business,” he said. These disruptions severely impact national communication networks.

He acknowledged the Ministry of Communications’ efforts but called for more public awareness and support. “This isn’t just MTN’s problem—it’s Ghana’s problem,” he stressed.

The Editors’ Forum is an annual event organized by MTN Ghana for media professionals. It shares insights into company operations and addresses regional concerns. This year focused on digital inclusion, network expansion, and local capacity building.