MTN Leadership Reshuffle Signals Strategic Shift in Telecommunications Sector
MTN Implements Leadership Changes Amid Strategic Review
MTN Group, one of Africa’s largest telecommunications providers, has announced a significant leadership restructuring aimed at bolstering its operational strategy and spurring growth across its key markets. In a bold move, Ferdi Moolman, previously the Group Chief Risk Officer, has been appointed as CEO and Executive Director of MTN South Africa, succeeding Charles Molapisi. The changes, effective November 1, 2025, highlight a strategic shift as MTN aims to streamline leadership and accelerate infrastructure developments during challenging times.
Leadership Transition to Strengthen South Africa Operations
During his tenure as CEO of MTN South Africa, Charles Molapisi navigated the company through a challenging period, including an increase in frequent power outages that tested the resilience of the operator’s network. Molapisi will now return to his former role as Group Chief Technology and Information Officer (GCTIO), where he will concentrate on enhancing the operator’s technology and innovation strategies. Ferdi Moolman is no stranger to leadership roles within MTN, having served as CEO of MTN Nigeria for five years, a challenging yet transformative period for the company. His appointment at the helm of MTN South Africa brings a wealth of experience to the operator’s home market, as he is expected to drive growth and operational efficiency.
Yolanda Cuba and Mazen Mroue to Play Critical Roles
In a complementary move to support Ferdi Moolman, Yolanda Cuba, who previously served as MTN Group VP for Southern and East Africa, will step into the roles of Deputy CEO and Executive Director for MTN South Africa. This collaboration between two seasoned leaders underscores MTN’s commitment to leveraging internal expertise to maximize returns. Meanwhile, Mazen Mroue, the current GCTIO and CEO of Digital Infrastructure, will focus exclusively on growing MTN’s fiber and data center businesses across Africa. This restructuring positions MTN’s digital infrastructure strategy to focus on key market opportunities, including strategic partnerships with tower companies and network-sharing initiatives.
A Broader Strategic Focus Across the Group
The leadership changes extend beyond MTN South Africa, addressing the group’s broader strategic priorities. Selorm Adadevoh, the Group Chief Commercial Officer, will now take on additional responsibilities for strategy and transformation, essential areas as the organization adapts to fast-evolving market dynamics. Concurrently, the current Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Chika Ekeji, will step down from the executive committee to concentrate on nurturing emerging business opportunities. MTN’s ability to adapt its leadership structure demonstrates the company’s proactive approach toward addressing growth challenges and ensuring long-term operational success.
MTN’s Path Forward in Telecommunications
These leadership adjustments reflect MTN’s clear focus on enhancing its position as a leading player in the telecommunications industry. By strategically separating roles and realigning focus areas like digital infrastructure, fiber expansion, and network-sharing efficiencies, MTN is preparing for sustained growth across the African continent. With key markets like South Africa and Nigeria at the center of its operations, the company is laying the groundwork to deliver improved network resilience and expand its service offerings to meet growing customer demand. As MTN continues to innovate and adapt, it sets a benchmark for other players in the telecom market seeking growth in an increasingly competitive industry.
