MTN Group has made a powerful statement on the international scene by climbing 127 places to secure the 267th spot in Forbes’ prestigious 2024 World’s Best Employers list. This leap from last year’s rank of 394 is a testament to MTN’s relentless commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment. The recognition is based on insights from over 300,000 employees across 850 companies in nearly 50 countries, placing MTN among the best employers worldwide.
MTN’s rise in the rankings is especially notable within the highly competitive global telecom sector, where it now stands as the fourth-highest-ranked company. This achievement reflects MTN’s dedication to nurturing a workplace that values its employees, provides opportunities for growth, and encourages innovation.
At the heart of MTN’s success is the belief that its people drive the company forward. The company’s workforce is central to its progress, as their dedication, talent, and hard work have helped MTN emerge as a global telecom leader. To support this belief, MTN has implemented several initiatives, such as the “Live Inspired Employee Value Promise.” This initiative underscores MTN’s pledge to ensure that all employees, regardless of their position, feel inspired to make meaningful contributions to the company.
MTN’s dedication to diversity and inclusion also plays a significant role in its success. In 2023, women comprised 40% of MTN’s global workforce, with 36% representation on its Group Board. These figures highlight the company’s commitment to gender equality and building an inclusive culture that welcomes individuals from all walks of life.
Paul Norman, MTN Group Chief Human Resources Officer, emphasized the importance of this achievement: “Being recognised by Forbes affirms our efforts to create a workplace that supports inclusivity, personal growth, and well-being. Our people are the driving force behind MTN, and their passion is what helps us evolve. We are proud of this recognition and remain committed to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.”
MTN’s focus on its employees goes beyond just professional growth; the company prioritizes holistic well-being. The MTN MOVE well-being app is a shining example of this commitment. The app, which supports mental, physical, and emotional health, is widely used by over 90% of MTN’s workforce. Furthermore, MTN’s leadership development programs, like the Rising Leaders initiative, are designed to empower employees to take on greater responsibilities and ensure a diverse pipeline of leaders for the future.
With over 17,500 employees across 18 markets, MTN’s workforce is as diverse as the communities it serves, from urban centers to remote areas. Despite geographical differences, MTN’s employees share a common mission: to connect people, businesses, and communities, driving progress across Africa and beyond.
This recognition by Forbes highlights the strength of MTN’s employee-centric approach, which fosters both personal and professional growth. Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO, encapsulated this vision: “This acknowledgment underscores the importance of people-driven organizations. At MTN, our strength lies not only in our technological achievements but in the individuals who bring our vision to life. As we move forward, our goal remains to create an environment where our people can thrive. When they thrive, so do the communities we serve. That is where true progress begins.”
Through its continuous efforts to build a supportive, diverse, and innovative workplace, MTN Group has proven that South Africa is more than capable of competing on the global stage, leading by example in one of the most competitive industries in the world.
