MTN Group has appointed Lwazi Bam as Group Chief Risk Officer, tasking the former Deloitte Africa chief with overseeing enterprise-wide risk management and compliance as the company pushes ahead with its long-term growth strategy.
The appointment takes effect June 1, with Bam joining the group’s executive committee as part of leadership changes aimed at strengthening execution of MTN’s “Ambition 2030” plan, which focuses on expanding digital services, data usage and financial inclusion across its markets. “Lwazi Bam joins MTN at an exciting time in our journey, as we embark on our Ambition 2030 strategy,” said Ralph Mupita.
“He brings with him strong leadership and experience in leading large, complex businesses across multiple markets, combined with a deep understanding of risk, regulatory and governance frameworks. I believe this will stand MTN in good stead as we work to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress.”
Bam brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience, including his tenure as chief executive officer of Deloitte Africa and Southern Africa, where he oversaw the integration of a pan-African business and managed operations across multiple jurisdictions.
His background includes extensive work in regulated environments, with a focus on strengthening governance, risk oversight and capital discipline frameworks. He has also held board roles at institutions including Standard Bank Group and Woolworths, contributing to audit and risk committees and working closely with regulators.
“I am inspired by the impact MTN Group is making across the continent and excited to be joining a company whose purpose is leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress,” Bam said.
The appointment follows earlier executive changes at MTN, including the November 2025 move that saw former Group Chief Risk Officer Ferdi Moolman appointed chief executive of MTN South Africa.
MTN is seeking to deepen its presence in mobile data and fintech services, betting on rising smartphone penetration and demand for digital financial tools across Africa. Strengthening risk and compliance functions is seen as critical to navigating regulatory complexity as the group expands in multiple markets.
