Telecommunications group MTN South Africa and the North West government have strengthened their partnership following engagements this week among the company’s executive committee, led by deputy CEO Yolanda Cuba, and North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi and members of the provincial executive.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss areas of collaboration that will support the province's development priorities, including digital infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, economic participation and improved access to reliable connectivity – all of which are key enablers of the National Development Plan Vision 2030.

“Strong partnerships between the public and private sectors are essential in driving inclusive growth and ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy reach every community. Our visit to the North West is an opportunity to listen, collaborate and identify practical ways in which MTN can continue supporting the province's development ambitions.”

The engagement also reinforces MTN South Africa's continued investment in the North West.

In 2026, the company committed more than R150-million towards upgrading and expanding its network infrastructure across the province.

The investment is enhancing network capacity on over 1 000 network towers, improving customer experience, increasing 4G and 5G coverage and ensuring that communities, businesses and public institutions have access to world-class digital connectivity.

Areas such as Mafikeng, Klerksdorp and Taung will benefit from the deployment of new network towers, while areas such as Potchefstroom, Vryburg, Orkney, Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Kenneth Kaunda will benefit from network modernisation – all which will happen in 2026.

Beyond network investment, MTN has continued to make a meaningful social impact in the North West through the work of the MTN South Africa Foundation.

The company continues to invest in programmes that align with national and provincial priorities, creating sustainable opportunities for underserved communities.

Notable interventions include the establishment of the Bojanala Teacher Centre, 37 multimedia centres across the province and the distribution of digital devices through the Back2School Campaign and MTN Online School to improve access to quality digital education.

Building on this impact, the Foundation is establishing a Digital Skills Hub in Marikana, in partnership with Afrika Tikkun, to equip unemployed youth with in-demand digital and entrepreneurial skills while creating pathways to employment.