Speaker Bio
Ralph Mupita is Group President and CEO of MTN Group, Africa’s leading digital operator with a presence in 16 markets and nearly 300 million customers. Under his leadership, MTN is executing Ambition 2025, the Group’s strategy to transition from a traditional telecoms operator to a platform-led, technology-driven business that accelerates digital and financial inclusion across the continent.
Appointed CEO in September 2020, Ralph previously served as MTN Group Chief Financial Officer from 2017. During this time, he strengthened the Group’s capital position, led portfolio optimisation efforts, and oversaw landmark public listings in Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda, deepening local participation in MTN’s growth
journey.
Before joining MTN, Ralph was Chief Executive Officer of Old Mutual Emerging Markets, where he oversaw operations across 19 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. He brings a broad leadership perspective shaped by a career that spans engineering, financial services, and telecommunications.
He serves on several boards within the MTN ecosystem, including MTN Group, MTN South Africa, MTN Nigeria, and MTN Group Fintech.
Ralph also contributes to global industry leadership. He is Deputy Chair of the GSMA, the global association representing mobile operators and digital ecosystem players. He serves as a Commissioner on the UN and ITU-affiliated Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, which promotes universal and affordable broadband access. In addition, he is a member of the B20 Advisory Board, providing private sector input into the G20 policy agenda, particularly relevant as South Africa assumes the G20 presidency in 2025.
Ralph participates in the African Renaissance Retreat, a forum convened by Aliko Dangote that brings together senior African business leaders committed to advancing private sector-led growth across the continent. His involvement reflects a broader commitment to collaborative efforts that shape Africa’s economic future.
He holds a BSc Engineering (Hons) and an MBA from the University of Cape Town, and completed the General Management Programme at Harvard Business School. His leadership has been widely recognised, including being named CEO of the Year at the 2024 Africa CEO Forum Awards, which honour excellence in African business leadership