US tariffs could derail Africa’s telecom growth, MTN CEO warns
- MTN Group's CEO Ralph Mupita warns that new US tariffs on technology imports could impact Africa's telecom sector.
- The company spends around $2 billion annually on network infrastructure, which may be threatened by rising equipment costs.
- Mupita anticipates that sustained tariffs could keep inflation elevated and slow global growth.
The challenges faced by MTN Group highlight the vulnerability of telecom operators in Africa to global trade dynamics. As the company navigates rising costs and profitability concerns, its pivot to new revenue streams like video streaming could be a strategic move, but it also poses significant risks in a competitive market. Further discussion is needed on how African telecoms can adapt to these external pressures while ensuring sustainable growth.
