Africa’s largest mobile operator, MTN Group, and global technology firm Microsoft said they would work together to expand access to artificial intelligence-powered learning and productivity tools across the continent, aiming to deepen digital participation among millions of users.
The collaboration was unveiled as MTN marked its 300-million-customer milestone. Under the initiative, MTN customers in selected markets will gain access to Microsoft 365 with Copilot, an AI-enabled suite designed to support research, writing, communication and collaboration across devices.
The package will also include Microsoft’s built-in security features, offering protection against phishing, data loss and other emerging cyberthreats through continuous monitoring.
“Africa’s growth will increasingly be shaped by how effectively its people can participate in the digital world,” said MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita. “This new strengthens that trajectory. Working together, we will open new pathways for innovation and opportunity that will define the continent’s next phase of progress.”
Microsoft said the joint effort reflected a shared intention to narrow the gap between connectivity and meaningful digital empowerment.
“Our collaboration with MTN reflects our shared goal to enable people to learn, create, and participate meaningfully in the digital economy,” said Samer Abu-Ltaif, President for Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa. “By bringing Copilot to millions of MTN customers, we are helping unlock new opportunities for learning and innovation across Africa.”
The rollout is expected to begin in early 2026. MTN said the initiative aligns with its broader plans to embed artificial intelligence across its network and services, with a focus on tools that improve learning, accessibility and participation in the digital economy.
Both companies described the partnership as part of a long-term push to build responsible technology ecosystems that support sustainable growth and broaden opportunities across the continent.
