Ralph Mupita, the head of MTN, has been appointed to a second term on the board of the GSM Association (GSMA), a nonprofit trade organisation representing over 1,000 mobile network operators worldwide. The GSMA plays a crucial role in shaping the development of mobile communications, advocating for industry policies, and facilitating key events like Mobile World Congress. Mupita's re-election to the board will see him serve a two-year term from January 2027 to December 2028.
The GSMA board comprises 26 members, including prominent industry leaders such as Allison Kirkby, group CEO of British Telecom, and Margherita Della Valle, group CEO of Vodafone. Mupita is the only African mobile provider represented in the body's apex leadership structure. His re-election to the board is a significant milestone, particularly given his role as deputy chair of the GSMA, a position he retains for the new term.
The GSMA is focused on increasing mobile connectivity and equitable access to artificial intelligence (AI) worldwide. According to GSMA chair Gopal Vittal, the mobile industry is entering a new era where advanced networks, AI, and open digital platforms can create significant economic and societal value. The organisation's priority will be to accelerate investment and innovation, strengthen digital safety and trust, and ensure the benefits of connectivity and AI reach people and businesses everywhere.
Mupita expressed his privilege in continuing to serve on the GSMA board, particularly at a time when AI is reshaping the industry. He noted that many people across Africa and the Global South are still to come online, and mobile remains the most powerful means of widening access to opportunity. Mupita's task, he said, is to ensure that the benefits of mobile and AI reach everyone.
Mupita's re-election to the GSMA board comes on the back of his appointment as a founding member of the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) AI for Good Global Commission in July. This commission aims to harness the potential of AI to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Mupita's involvement in these organisations highlights his commitment to promoting digital inclusion and innovation in the mobile industry.
As the only African mobile provider on the GSMA board, Mupita's presence ensures that the interests of the continent are represented in the global mobile ecosystem. His experience and expertise will be invaluable in shaping the future of mobile communications, particularly in Africa, where mobile technology has the potential to drive economic growth and social development.
The re-election of Ralph Mupita to the GSMA board is a significant achievement for MTN and the African mobile industry. It demonstrates the company's commitment to promoting digital inclusion and innovation, and its recognition as a leader in the global mobile ecosystem. With Mupita's continued involvement, the GSMA is well-positioned to drive progress in the mobile industry and ensure that the benefits of connectivity and AI reach people and businesses everywhere.
Key points
- Ralph Mupita is the only African mobile provider represented on the GSMA board.
- The GSMA is focused on increasing mobile connectivity and equitable access to artificial intelligence worldwide.
- Mupita retains his position as deputy chair of the GSMA for the new term.
