Ibrahim Misto
Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana, Ibrahim Misto, has stressed the need for Africa to reclaim its digital destiny by redefining its digital identity and breaking free from decades of dependence on external technological systems and frameworks.
Speaking at the Mobex Africa Tech Innovation Conference and Awards 2025, he urged African nations to take decisive control of their digital infrastructure, data, and innovation, insisting that the continent’s future prosperity hinges on building a self-reliant, secure, and authentically African digital ecosystem.
“Africa’s digital identity must be authentic, secure, and sovereign. The time has come for us to reshape our digital future—one that is entirely African in character, secure in its foundation, and sovereign in its ownership,” he stated.
Ibrahim Misto revealed that MTN Ghana has already invested over $1 billion into the country’s digital infrastructure over the past five years, with an additional $214 million slated for 2025 to expand its 4G and 5G networks.
He emphasised that these investments are not just about improving connectivity but about laying the groundwork for a secure, inclusive, and prosperous digital economy for the entire continent.
Mr. Misto stressed that Africa’s digital solutions must be homegrown, reflecting the continent’s unique cultures, languages, and aspirations.
He also shared the success of MTN’s AI and UI electronics hackathons, which have provided young developers and students with a platform to co-create the digital future of Africa.
He indicated that security must not be an afterthought but a critical, foundational aspect of Africa’s digital future, requiring local expertise and robust national awareness campaigns to safeguard the continent’s digital infrastructure.
In support of the call for digital self-determination, Chief Executive Officer of MOBEX Africa, George Spencer Quaye, emphasised that real transformation lies not just in technological advancement but in solving African problems in African ways.
He stressed the importance of ensuring no one is left behind and measuring success by the lives changed.
Celebrating a decade of achievements, he noted that MOBEX Africa has connected thousands of young Africans to opportunities, bridged innovators with investors, and supported policy reforms such as mobile money interoperability.
However, he cautioned that the next decade demands acceleration, not celebration.