Charles Molapisi leads MTN South Africa’s affordable smartphone rollout

Key Points

• MTN South Africa offers 4G smartphones for R99 ($5.40) to over 1.2 million prepaid users, aiming to bridge South Africa’s digital divide.
• CEO Charles Molapisi leads the initiative, emphasizing inclusive access to 4G and 5G connectivity for underserved communities across the country.
• The smartphone rollout, in partnership with Smartphone For All, will expand in three phases between May 2025 and the end of 2026.

Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa, part of Africa’s largest telecom provider MTN Group, is leading a groundbreaking initiative to bring affordable technology to South Africa’s underserved communities.

In a bid to make the transition to 4G and 5G more inclusive, MTN South Africa will offer over 1.2 million of its prepaid customers affordable 4G smartphones, starting at just R99 ($5.40). This initiative is part of MTN’s broader goal to bridge the digital divide and ensure that no one is left behind as the country moves toward more advanced mobile technologies.

MTN South Africa brings affordable smartphones to communities

In a LinkedIn post, Molapisi commented about the initiative, saying, “I’m excited to announce a new initiative at MTN South Africa that is close to my heart. Starting May 1, we began offering more than 1.2 million prepaid customers a 4G smartphone for just R99. These are customers who have never owned a smartphone, and we’re proud to offer them access to the digital world.”

He continued, “For many, this phone is more than just a device; it’s a way to stay connected to loved ones, access vital services, support children’s education, and engage in the digital economy. As we move forward with 4G and 5G, we must ensure that no one is excluded. This initiative is our commitment to real, inclusive access to the digital world, empowering all South Africans, no matter where they live.”

Affordable smartphones to roll out in phases

This initiative is being implemented in partnership with Smartphone For All Pty Limited. Babatunde Osho, the founder and CEO of Smartphone For All, emphasized the significance of this project, stating, “By making smartphones affordable and accessible, we’re giving millions of people the chance to take part in the digital economy.”

The rollout will occur in three phases between May 2025 and the end of 2026. In the first phase, 5,000 smartphones will be offered to selected customers, primarily in Gauteng, based on their usage patterns and spending behavior.

The second phase will expand to 130,000 customers across the country, with the final phase reaching an additional 1.1 million customers. The smartphones will come preloaded with key apps, offering access to various digital tools and services. These devices will require an MTN SIM card, a common feature for subsidized, low-cost devices.

Leading with vision: Molapisi at MTN South Africa

Molapisi, a seasoned executive, took on the role of CEO at MTN South Africa in January 2022. His experience includes serving as CEO of MTN Zambia and Chief Information Officer at MTN Nigeria. Under his leadership, MTN South Africa has contributed significantly to the MTN Group’s financial performance. In addition to his executive role, Molapisi owns a minority stake in MTN, with 40,572 shares valued at nearly R4.82 million ($264,000).