Chief Operating Officer of MTN Nigeria, Ayham Moussa has identified partnership as a key element in bolstering Africa’s digital future.

He spoke during a panel discussion on “The Big Push for Infrastructure and Next-Gen Connectivity” at the inaugural GITEX Africa Lagos Edition, an event for technology and innovation on the continent.

The panel, featuring industry stakeholders, delved into the critical need for robust infrastructure and advanced connectivity solutions to unlock Africa’s full digital potential.

The discussion highlighted the rapid pace of digital transformation across Africa and the imperative for concurrent investment in the underlying infrastructure. Moussa shared the significant strides being made and the challenges that remain. “We are at a pivotal moment in Africa’s digital journey. The demand for connectivity is skyrocketing, and we, as industry leaders, have a collective responsibility to ensure that this demand is met with resilient, scalable, and accessible infrastructure. Our focus at MTN is not just about expanding networks; it’s about building the foundational highways for digital inclusion and economic growth across the continent,” Moussa said

Moussa elaborated on MTN’s strategic investments in fibre optics, 5G technology, and rural connectivity initiatives, emphasising the company’s commitment to bridging the digital divide. He also stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating infrastructure development. “No single entity can achieve this alone. Collaboration between governments, regulators, and private sector players is paramount to creating an enabling environment for innovation and widespread access to next-gen connectivity,” Moussa added.

Other panellists, Director, Product Development and PreSales, Space42, Martin Kaufmann; Eghosa Urhogide, Managing Director & CEO, Edo State ICTA, and Oluwasayo Oshadami, Director, Solutions Architect, at Equinix West Africa, reinforced Moussa’s sentiments, offering insights into the evolving landscape of enterprise connectivity and the critical role of data centers and cloud infrastructure.

The panel concluded with a resounding call to action for continued investment, strategic partnerships, and forward-thinking policies to ensure that Africa not only keeps pace with global digital advancements but also leads in creating innovative solutions tailored to its unique context. The discussions at GITEX Africa Lagos Edition reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to harnessing technology as a catalyst for sustainable development and inclusive growth.