MWC Kigali 2025

Africa’s digital transformation is accelerating, driven by rising mobile penetration and new technologies like 5G. However, critical challenges remain, including ensuring inclusive access, building sustainable networks, and developing innovative business models to unlock the continent’s full potential.

At Mobile World Congress (MWC) Kigali 2025, industry leaders discussed how telecom companies can evolve beyond more connectivity to become key drivers of socioeconomic growth in Africa.

We were proud to sponsor the Connected Continent. Lohini Moodley, communications, media, and technology partner, contributed insights on a “Transforming The Telco: 5G And Beyond — The Next Phase Of Inclusive, Sustainable Connectivity” panel.

October 21, 1:30 p.m.—2:15 p.m. CAT

Transforming The Telco: 5G And Beyond “The next phase of inclusive, sustainable connectivity”

5G marks a transformative leap in Africa’s connectivity journey, ushering in a new era of ultra-fast networks, intelligent infrastructure, and real-time communication. As telecoms evolve from traditional service providers to digital enablers, 5G is set to revolutionize industries, unlock innovation, and drive inclusive economic growth.

By 2030, 5G is projected to contribute over $11 billion to the Sub-Saharan African economy, accounting for more than 6% of the total mobile economic impact. However, beyond increased speed and scale, the next phase of connectivity must also tackle the digital divide, promote network sustainability, and prioritize inclusive access for rural and underserved communities.

In this session we explored what 5G and beyond truly means for Africa — not just as a tech upgrade, but as a catalyst for equitable and sustainable transformation.  

Moderator: Nicolai Schättgen, CEO, Match Maker Ventures

Panelists: Lohini Moodley, partner, Oliver Wyman; Sylvia Mulinge, CEO, MTN Uganda; Elizabeth Migwalla, vice president, Government Affairs, Qualcomm