By Saul Molobi
In his address to the Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum which is annually organised by the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation, MTN Group CEO & President Ralph Lupita emphasised Africa’s urgent need to build a strong digital economy, highlighting the significant role digital infrastructure and technology can play in addressing the continent’s pressing challenges. Lupita argued that Africa must focus on becoming a global player in the digital economy to effectively combat poverty, unemployment, and economic inequality.
“Africa’s digital economy has the potential to drive productivity, reduce costs, and create entirely new sectors of jobs and services,” said Lupita. “In markets across Asia and Southeast Asia, digital growth has been key to economic expansion, fueling a larger growth envelope and providing a sustainable path out of poverty.”
Lupita acknowledged the importance of infrastructure, referencing undersea cables that connect global markets but often make Africa dependent on external networks. “Many of our internet connections rely on cables routed through Europe and the US,” he explained, citing recent incidents where damaged cables disrupted connectivity across the continent. “We must secure and expand our digital infrastructure locally to ensure resilience and self-reliance.”
The MTN CEO also discussed megatrends reshaping the global digital economy, including the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging 6G networks. “We’re on the cusp of AI advancements that will dramatically change the workforce and productivity,” he stated. “Africa cannot afford to lag behind; without proactive measures, we risk becoming a digital underclass.”
In Lupita’s vision, digital growth in Africa is also deeply tied to upskilling and accessibility. Despite high mobile ownership in South Africa, many people remain “trapped in the 2G era” due to the high cost of data-capable devices, he noted. “Ensuring affordable, data-enabled devices for all is fundamental,” he asserted. “Education systems, too, must evolve to prioritize digital skills. Today, coding and digital design are accessible even to those with lower technical skills, allowing us to bridge the skill gap more rapidly than ever.”
*** Saul Molobi with Ralph Lupita and Amb Kingsley Makhubela, a former Chief State Proposal Officer and now a businessman***
Lupita also stressed the need for Africa to position itself in the geopolitical landscape, balancing relationships with major tech powers like the U.S. and China. “We must think strategically about our partnerships and choices in technology,” he urged, emphasising Africa’s opportunity to leverage digital advancements for its own growth while safeguarding national security.
Reflecting on global success stories, Lupita pointed to India’s expansive digital transformation as a model, particularly its low-cost spectrum allocation with mandates for universal rural coverage. “In India, nearly the entire country is connected through affordable 4G and 5G services,” he said. “African policymakers could learn from this model, which has enabled millions of jobs and a thriving e-commerce sector.”
Looking to the future, Lupita emphasised the importance of a coordinated policy approach to enable Africa’s digital transformation. “Building an inclusive digital economy is a monumental task that requires a consistent regulatory environment, affordable devices for students, and targeted investments,” he said. He also highlighted the potential for Africa to establish itself as a leader in the digital world, urging for “African tech champions” to emerge on a global scale.
“Our vision is clear: Africa must not settle for lagging in the digital economy,” he concluded. “Through strategic investment, collaboration, and education, we can secure our place as a leader in the digital future.”
Lupita’s call to action serves as a timely reminder that a well-developed digital economy could offer African nations a path to sustainable, inclusive growth in the global digital landscape.