MTN Ghana is taking bold steps to accelerate the country’s artificial intelligence and digital transformation agenda, according to the company’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO), Ibrahim Misto.
Speaking in an exclusive interview at the Africa Tech Festival 2025 in Cape Town, Misto said MTN’s strategy is geared towards driving AI adoption, expanding digital infrastructure, and developing local talent; key elements he believes will position Ghana as a major technology competitor on the continent.
Misto warned that Africa must act swiftly to avoid deepening the global AI divide. “Africa needs to develop its own intelligence we cannot afford to lag behind in the global AI race,” he emphasized.
He added that digital transformation cannot be achieved by a single player: “Policymakers, startups, and the private sector need to work together to create solutions that address Africa’s needs.”
Local Innovation at the Centre
A major pillar of MTN Ghana’s digital roadmap, Misto said, is the development of African-grown AI tools tailored to local languages, communities, and businesses.
“We want AI created in Africa, by Africans, for Africans. That is our focus,” he stated, underscoring MTN’s commitment to fostering homegrown solutions that directly address regional challenges.
Investing in Skills and Startups
To build a workforce ready for the digital future, MTN Ghana is strengthening its talent-development initiatives, including the Technology Innovation Hub and the One Million Coders Programme.
“Our goal is to ensure Ghanaian talent is ready to build and compete,” Misto said.
He added that MTN is also increasing its support for emerging startups by providing digital tools, mentorship, and market-access opportunities to help scalable solutions reach customers faster.
Transitioning to a Full Digital Service Provider
Misto revealed that MTN Ghana is evolving beyond its traditional role as a telecom operator, moving toward becoming a comprehensive digital services provider.
The company is rolling out new services for homes and businesses ranging from smart home systems and security solutions to entertainment platforms and AI-driven business productivity tools.
However, he stressed that Africa’s digital ambitions hinge on one critical factor: energy.
“The cost of intelligence is tied to the cost of energy. We can build data centres, but governments must fix energy. Partnership is the only way forward,” Misto cautioned, pointing to energy instability as the biggest barrier to unlocking Africa’s digital potential.
Africa Tech Festival 2025: A Hub of Innovation
The 28th edition of the Africa Tech Festival drew over 15,000 participants, 300 exhibitors, and 450 speakers, reinforcing its status as one of the continent’s most influential technology gatherings. This year’s event highlighted Africa’s growing momentum in AI, cloud computing, fintech, connectivity, and digital innovation.
As MTN Ghana continues to invest in digital infrastructure, talent, and innovation, Misto believes the country is poised to play a leading role in shaping Africa’s technology-driven future.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
Contact:
📞 +233 541 921 562
✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
