By: Christian Kpesese
MTN Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to driving sustainability as a strategic tool for business growth and national development, calling on businesses to view sustainability as an opportunity for innovation and shared value creation rather than mere compliance.
Speaking at the latest MTN Bright Conversations in Accra on the theme “Sustainability: A Strategic Imperative for Business Growth and National Development,” Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, said MTN’s sustainability framework is intrinsically linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She revealed that MTN has surpassed 40% female inclusion and is on course to achieve 50% gender parity by 2030.
Over the years, the company has rolled out several sustainability initiatives, including scholarships, digital inclusion programmes, support for small businesses, and the construction of school infrastructure across the country.
As part of its green agenda, the MTN House is now fully powered by solar energy.
Madam Wiafe urged the need for companies to embed sustainability into their culture and operations.
“Sustainability is not just about doing good; it’s about securing long-term value,”, she said.
She, however, pointed out the need for clearer national direction on sustainability and commended the office of the Minister of State responsible for Sustainability and Climate Change for its efforts to coordinate national policies.
MTN pledged support for national efforts against illegal mining (galamsey), which affects its fibre optic infrastructure.
Also addressing the event virtually, Dr. Kwabena Situ of Deloitte Ghana highlighted sustainability as both a risk and an opportunity. He urged businesses to strengthen their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) systems, warning against greenwashing and recommending the use of global frameworks, independent experts, and external sustainability audits for credibility.
Dr. Situ noted that Ghana’s growing carbon market, expected to generate over $1 billion by 2030, offers vast opportunities for green financing and investment.
MTN’s four sustainability pillars include Doing for People, Doing for Growth, Doing for the Planet, and Doing it Right guide its operations.
MTN says it will continue to champion initiatives that promote inclusive growth, environmental protection, and responsible business practices in Ghana.
