"The MTN Foundation will make a significant contribution to the national effort towards reconstruction and development, and the building of a better life for all."

These were the words of Nelson Mandela as he inaugurated the MTN South Africa Foundation in 2001, setting the stage for a journey of transformation and empowerment.

The former president’s words were indeed prescient, but nobody hearing him speak that evening could have foreseen just how significant that contribution would become – or how the South African foundation would spawn sister organisations across Africa and the Middle East. Together, these foundations have invested billions of rands, touching countless lives with their impactful programs. In the decade between 2014 and 2023 alone, the South African foundation invested a substantial R2.4 billion in corporate social investment (CSI).

A legacy of empowerment

In its inaugural year, the MTN South Africa Foundation, with a R22 million budget, established over 32 multimedia centers in historically disadvantaged schools. This was just the beginning, as the foundation's impact quickly grew. By 2023, it had installed hundreds more multimedia centers at schools in need of IT and connectivity.

The momentum spread beyond South Africa. The MTN Nigeria Foundation was launched in 2004, followed by Ghana, Uganda, Sudan, Yemen, and Guinea Bissau in 2007. The network of foundations continued to grow, each empowered to create tailor-made programs addressing their unique local needs while adhering to overarching guidelines.

Over the years, MTN’s foundations have evolved their focus. Initially emphasizing education, health, arts, and culture, they shifted towards community engagement aligned with MTN's ICT strengths. Education remained a cornerstone, with a significant portion of efforts dedicated to upskilling individuals and communities through technology-enabled education. As the decade progressed, enterprise and entrepreneurial development gained prominence, empowering youth and fostering economic growth.

This focus on empowerment and growth has led to a measurable and significant impact across the continent. The numbers behind MTN’s foundations' work are not just statistics; they represent real lives transformed.

Making a measurable difference

Billions of rands have been invested in hundreds of deserving causes, with a record R335 million allocated in 2015 alone.

During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, MTN’s foundations stepped up their efforts, reaching an estimated 23.8 million people in 2020 and 9.8 million in 2021 with critical support and resources. This commitment to social upliftment extends to empowering individuals with skills and opportunities. In 2022 alone, 145,000 people were upskilled and trained through MTN’s foundations’ programs, with over 10,000 successfully placed in employment.

The MTN Nigeria Foundation stands as a testament to the scale of our impact, boasting over 1,000 project sites, 50 unique projects, and a staggering 31 million beneficiaries in 2024. These numbers paint a vivid picture of the lives we've touched, the communities we've strengthened, and the brighter future we're building together.

A legacy that lives on

As we reflect on the MTN Foundation's 23-year journey, we are reminded that our work is far from over. The challenges we face today are complex and multifaceted, but our commitment to building a better future remains steadfast.

Through our unwavering dedication to connecting people and empowering communities, MTN and its foundations continue to fulfil Nelson Mandela's vision of a better life for all. We believe that investing in education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and digital inclusion is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. As we look ahead, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the positive impact we can continue to make in the lives of millions across the continent.

The story of MTN’s Foundations is one of hope, resilience, and the belief in the power of human potential. As we continue to work alongside communities across Africa, we remain dedicated to empowering individuals, uplifting communities, and creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all.