By Own Correspondent
MTN Eswatini, the largest and most valuable platform business for digital and financial inclusion, is moving full steam ahead to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone in Eswatini enjoys the full benefits of a modern connected life.
With over 1 million people around the country using MTN Eswatini services every month, and over 600, 000 using MoMo services in the same period, the telecommunications giant continues to cement its commitment to accelerating digital transformation to enable a thriving digital economy for Eswatini, and the region.
At an informal, captivating annual media engagement session, MTN Eswatini Chief Executive Officer, Wandile Mtshali, and the top executives provided an inside look into the company’s strategic vision, operational challenges, and exciting innovations.
The topics covered ranged from service affordability, innovative network technology including the advent of the 5G network, the outbreak of scams and fraud targeting mobile money users, and superior service quality.
“MTN Eswatini’s strategy is closely aligned with the MTN Group’s Ambition 2025, which focuses on leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress. We’ve adapted this strategy to meet the specific needs of the Kingdom of Eswatini, as we strive to ensure that everyone has access to a modern, connected life. Our goal is to empower emaSwati by providing platforms that enhance daily life and offer new opportunities,” said Mtshali.
“Our vision extends beyond 2025, aiming to foster innovation and inclusivity across all our operations. Our focus on digital transformation allows us to bring about positive changes and improvements in the lives of emaSwati, not only for those connected to the MTN network.”
The event kicked off with a panel discussion that was moderated by the Chairperson of Eswatini Editors Forum, Mbongeni Mbingo, and Sibusiso Nhleko, Head of Corporate Services, Lindani Dlamini, Chief Technical Officer, Desire Ruhinguka, Chief Marketing Officer, and Norman Chakanyuka, the Chief Financial Officer.
This session emphasized MTN’s commitment to transparency and community engagement. Mtshali stated that the company thrives on feedback, and as the mirror of society, the media plays a critical role in achieving MTN’s vision for a digital future in Eswatini.
“We are focused on enhancing the value of our services for our users, particularly in the MoMo Fintech business. In Eswatini, we have achieved a financial inclusion rate of over 83% with the help of our MoMo Fintech services, particularly mobile money, over the past few years,” he said.
Mtshali mentioned that MTN also leverages other platform businesses to enhance value for customers and users. This includes Ayoba and Chenosis. Ayoba is Africa’s first Indigenous all-in-one application, offering multiple services such as chat, call, online payment, video and audio streaming, and content sharing.
Chenosis is a pan-African API marketplace with tailored solutions for developers to elevate their enterprises. API stands for Application Programming Interface.
“By closely listening to our customers’ feedback, MTN Eswatini has also made significant strides in further strengthening our network infrastructure,” said Mtshali.
“We have equipped all our base stations with Long Term Evolution (LTE) towers, aligning with the fourth-generation (4G) global wireless communication standard. This upgrade ensures faster and more reliable connectivity for all our customers across the Kingdom.” Mtshali said
In another matter, Mtshali emphasized MTN Eswatini’s commitment to investing in training and continuous career development for its personnel to excel in new and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
“This commitment aligns with Eswatini’s goal of creating first-world conditions for its citizens. We must continually evaluate and implement new strategies to reach that goal,” he said.
Mtshali provided an update on 5G technology, stating that trial base stations are operational at MTN Headquarters in Ezulwini and Corporate Place in Mbabane. He highlighted that 5G is ideal for industrial hubs and high-traffic commercial areas.
The government is exploring smart cities, with Mbabane as a potential first. The focus remains on areas where 5G can have the most impact, rather than on home connections, which are adequately supported by LTE.