Sifiso Dabengwa, the Zimbabwean-born former CEO of Africa’s largest mobile network operator MTN, passed away this morning after a battle with cancer.
The news was announced with deep sorrow by family spokesperson Themba Sibanyoni in a media release issued this afternoon.
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“Dabengwa was a titan in the telecommunications industry and an astute businessman. His tenure as CEO of MTN Group from 2011 to 2015 was marked by visionary leadership, integrity, and dedication that drove significant advancements in the industry,” said Sibanyoni.
Sibanyoni said Dabengwa, who leaves his wife and four children, has a legacy that extends far beyond the boardroom. “He was an advocate for education and a fervent believer in the power of technology to transform lives.”
However, Dabengwa’s departure from MTN was marked by controversy, as the company faced significant pressure from Nigerian authorities to pay a $5.2 billion fine.
This penalty was imposed due to MTN’s failure to disconnect five million unregistered subscribers, a requirement under Nigeria’s version of South Africa’s RICA law.
The registration mandate was introduced as part of Nigeria’s intensified security measures amid an ongoing Islamist insurgency.
“Due to the most unfortunate prevailing circumstances occurring at MTN Nigeria, I, in the interest of the company and its shareholders, have tendered my resignation with immediate effect,” said Dabengwa in a statement upon his departure.
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