The company placed 133rd among 900 companies globally in the Forbes World’s Best Employers 2026 ranking, up 33 places from a year earlier. MTN retained its position as the third-ranked telecommunications employer for a second consecutive year and has appeared on the list for six straight years.
The Johannesburg-based group has climbed 261 places since 2023, when it ranked 394th overall, underscoring a sustained improvement in its standing among global employers.
MTN was also the fifth-highest-ranked African company and the highest-ranked African company outside the financial-services sector.
The recognition comes as MTN begins implementing its Ambition 2030 strategy, which places its workforce at the centre of efforts to expand digital solutions and build businesses across connectivity, fintech and digital infrastructure.
“Our ambition for Africa is ultimately powered by people. Technology will continue to change what is possible, but it is the ingenuity, resilience and commitment of our people that turn that possibility into progress,” said Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO.
“Being recognised among the world’s best employers for a sixth consecutive year is something we are proud of, particularly because the list is informed by the voices and experiences of employees.”
Employee sentiment improves
The Forbes ranking is based on an independent, anonymous survey of more than 300,000 employees across more than 50 countries, who are asked how likely they are to recommend their employer to family and friends.
MTN’s own employee data points to an improvement in workforce sentiment. Its 2025 Group Culture Audit, independently assessed by Willis Towers Watson, recorded a +63 score for employees recommending MTN as a place to work, a 16-point increase from 2023.
At the same time, voluntary employee turnover declined to 4.0% from 5.7% over the same period.
MTN said participation in its internal employee surveys has remained between 95% and 97%, giving management regular feedback on workplace experience.
“This recognition is a reflection of the energy, passion and resilience our people bring to MTN every day – in how they serve our customers, support one another, shape our culture and help move our business forward,” said Mitwa Ngambi, MTN Group Chief People and Culture Officer.
“Our people continue to tell us what is working, where we can do better and what matters most to them, and that feedback helps shape how we lead, grow and support one another.”
MTN’s workforce spans more than 70 nationalities, with employees working across its Connectivity, Fintech and Digital Infrastructure businesses.
The group said its Live Inspired Employee Value Promise and Live Y’ello values are intended to support learning, inclusion and meaningful participation as it expands its operations and implements Ambition 2030.
