MTN Chairman Warns South Africa: 'We Are Nothing Without Africa'

MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas has issued a firm condemnation of xenophobia in South Africa, declaring that the nation cannot thrive in isolation from the broader African continent. His remarks come amid recurring tensions in South Africa directed at foreign nationals, many of whom are from other African countries.

Jonas, who chairs one of Africa's largest telecommunications companies, stressed that South Africa's economic fortunes are deeply intertwined with those of its continental neighbours. He argued that hostility towards fellow Africans undermines the very partnerships and markets that sustain South African businesses and growth.

"South Africa is nothing without Africa," Jonas is reported to have said, a statement that underscores the importance of Pan-African solidarity at a time when anti-immigrant sentiment has periodically erupted into violence across several South African cities.

The comments carry particular weight coming from the chairman of MTN, a company that operates across more than 20 African countries and depends heavily on its pan-continental footprint for revenue. Ghana is among MTN's key markets, with MTN Ghana being one of the country's dominant mobile network operators.

Xenophobic attacks in South Africa have long been a source of diplomatic friction between Pretoria and other African governments, including Ghana, which has previously recalled its ambassador in protest. Jonas's remarks are likely to be welcomed by leaders and citizens across the continent who have repeatedly called on South Africa to protect African migrants living within its borders.