The MTN Group, the largest mobile network operator in Africa, is one of the largest multinational mobile operators in the world, but it all started with one man’s idea and a handful of employees in South Africa in 1995. This article traces MTN’s journey in South Africa, from the company’s humble beginnings through its current position as an industry leader that has positively impacted the lives of millions of people across Africa and the world.
How it all started
On July 1, 2000, MTN was granted a 20-year license to set up and operate a telecommunications network across five African countries. MTN Group was officially established on October 4, 2000. The company listed its shares on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on December 17, 2000. Within one year of listing, MTN had risen to be one of the top ten listed companies on the JSE.
Setting up Infrastructure
In 2007, MTN looked for a location to set up its headquarters. In 2008, MTN established its headquarters in Johannesburg, and the company announced that it had bought a building on the corner of Pritchard Street and Fox Street. When MTN moved into their new office space, they were one of Johannesburg’s first tenants in many years.
Expansion
In 1995, MTN became the first company to offer mobile phone services to customers in emerging markets. The company has since expanded across over 20 countries and is now one of the leading mobile operators globally. MTN has offered its services for a lower cost by using its innovative pay-as-you-go model, which charges customers only for the time they use their phones. MTN also offers airtime cards that can make both local and international calls.
