MTN Group has begun deploying artificial intelligence (AI) to improve network performance in Nigeria, marking a major leap in the telco’s mission to embed AI across its African operations. This local launch is part of “MTN Genova,” the company’s broader tech overhaul aimed at reshaping service delivery through smarter, ethically grounded AI systems.
The group confirmed the move in a Thursday announcement, revealing that Nigeria’s rollout is only one among several experimental cases already in motion. In South Africa, MTN is applying AI to manage fuel consumption in data centres. Over in Benin, it’s focusing on energy optimisation, while in Côte d’Ivoire, the tech is being used to detect fibre cuts more accurately.
A Centre for Smart, African-Led Innovation
To manage these developments, MTN has launched an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence alongside a Cloud CoE, supported by more than 300 engineers. These teams are responsible for designing scalable AI systems that align with the group’s Responsible AI Policy.
“AI is no longer an enabler, it’s the engine reshaping businesses, redefining value creation and rewriting the rules of global innovation,” said Mazen Mroué, the Group’s Chief Digital Infrastructure Officer.
He added that AI is gradually becoming invisible yet integral to human experiences, noting that MTN’s goal is to create AI solutions built in Africa for Africans. “We at MTN are developing AI for Africa by Africans, unlocking sustainable value for all,” he said.
Why AI Could Be Africa’s Next Big Leap
MTN’s new AI wave is launching amid optimistic projections for the continent’s digital future. A SAP study suggests that AI could contribute US$1.5 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030 if it captures just 10% of the global market.
Meanwhile, Statista forecasts the regional AI market could reach US$4.51 billion by 2025, before rising to nearly US$19 billion by the end of the decade. And globally, PwC expects AI to drive US$15.7 trillion in economic growth by 2030, primarily through productivity gains.
Still, experts warn that with power must come responsibility. The GSMA, a global telecoms body, has been working with industry leaders to produce a Responsible AI Maturity Roadmap, aiming to ensure that the rise of machine intelligence doesn’t outpace ethical safeguards.
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