MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas has stressed the need to boost intra-African trade, stating that the telecom company remained proudly Pan-African in its business approach.

Jonas who spoke during a courtesy visit by the third cohort of the Media Innovation Programme (MIP-3) at his office in South Africa, saidd: “The goal at MTN is to be proudly Pan-African. We believe in the power of the media to shape the narrative of our continent and promote democracy.”

Also a former South African Deputy Finance Minister, Jonas highlighted the significance of the South Africa-Nigeria relationship, stating that a joint Africa is essential for Pan-Africanism. “If there’s no relationship at the social, economic, and political level, it’s a huge problem for Pan-Africanism. Africa is diverse, but a united Africa is crucial,” he said.

He blamed demographic anxiety for the rise of xenophobia which he also blamed on growing inequalities “Demographic anxiety could find expression in xenophobia. We need to create jobs in the digital economy, promote inclusivity, and grow the economy in all spheres,” he said.

He also emphasised the need to address ethnic stalking, which he believes serves no national interest and is only used to chase agendas during elections. “Ethnic stalking must be stopped because it’s divisive. We need a renaissance and a deliberate policy to promote national interest far ahead of regional interest,” he said.

For the media, Jonas advised business owners to make their platforms attractive to investors and urged journalists to uphold ethics. “Don’t be bendable and easily influenced by envelopes, but by ethics. The growth of digital media and shrinking operational assets can be averted if the media makes itself bankable and attracts the right kind of investments,” he advised.

The visit was part of the MIP-3 cohort’s one-week study tour, which aimed to equip media practitioners and innovators with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in a rapidly evolving media landscape and to tell the stories that need to be told. The program has been instrumental in reshaping the narrative of Africa by providing opportunities for Nigerian journalists to interface with their South African counterparts.