Mupita emphasized that connectivity alone does not guarantee digital adoption. While coverage has improved dramatically, with only about 9 of Africans outside mobile network areas, the usage gap remains a pressing challenge. "Handsets and devices remain too expensive for most of our customers," he explained. MTN is targeting smartphones priced at 20-30, ensuring that data-capable devices are accessible to broader segments of the population.
Relevant Content and Language InclusivityBeyond devices, content remains a barrier. Much of the existing digital content is Anglophone or Francophone, leaving millions of Africans underserved. Mupita stressed that AI can play a critical role in bridging this gap. MTN's AI chatbot, Ms. Baza, allows users on basic feature phones to access digital services in multiple languages through voice prompts. "We can start with the largest languages in each country and move systematically to ensure that Africans' voices are represented digitally," he noted.
A Young, Digital-First ContinentAfrica's median age of 19 provides a unique advantage. "Half of the continent has been born digital," Mupita observed. While challenges such as electricity access, device affordability, and relevant content remain, he highlighted that foundational networks are in place. Fiber and 5G deployment are critical next steps to enable low-latency applications, enhance connectivity, and support the continent's digital-first aspirations.
