MTN Business Marks 20 Years with Innovation-Packed ICT Connect Expo
MTN Business has officially launched the ICT Connect Expo, a technology showcase designed to highlight future-ready digital solutions developed through strategic partnerships with leading global and local innovators. The Expo forms part of MTN’s 20-year anniversary celebrations, marking two decades of transforming communication, business operations, and digital inclusion across Zambia.
Speaking during the opening, Mildred Chica, General Manager – Enterprise Business at MTN Zambia, described the Expo as a platform where innovation meets collaboration to deliver real-world solutions that empower businesses across key sectors of the economy.
“This Expo is a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the progress we have made in the digital space,” she said. “MTN Business has grown from offering basic mobile services to becoming a trusted ICT partner, helping enterprises operate smarter, safer, and more efficiently through cutting-edge technologies.”
Ms Chica emphasised that MTN’s progress has been driven by partnerships with technology solution providers and enterprise customers who share the vision of a digitally transformed Zambia.
“Our achievements have been made possible because of the strong relationships we have built with our technology partners and customers. Innovation thrives where collaboration exists, and together we are transforming the business landscape,” she added.
MTN’s enterprise portfolio has expanded to include a wide range of converged ICT solutions such as Fleet Management systems for real-time operational monitoring, an Enterprise Self-Service Portal that gives businesses improved control over their SIM profiles, cloud and communication platforms, cybersecurity solutions, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies designed to fuel business productivity and growth.
Also speaking during the official opening, MTN Zambia CEO, Mr Abbad Reda, said the ICT Connect Expo provides a unique platform for enterprise customers, government stakeholders, SMEs and innovators to engage, exchange ideas, and explore digital solutions that support business competitiveness.
“The Expo allows us to showcase cutting-edge technologies and foster strategic partnerships that are essential for digital transformation across industries,” Mr Reda said.
Meanwhile, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has applauded MTN for its continued investment in digital infrastructure and innovation. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Technology and Science, Honourable Felix Mutati, Director of Science and Technology, Dr Larry Mweetwa, officially opened the ICT Connect Forum and congratulated MTN Zambia on marking 20 years of operations.
Dr Mweetwa noted that Government, under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership, is driving a national digital transformation agenda aimed at increasing access to digital services for all citizens.
“We now have ordinary Zambians and businesses accessing services such as business registration, tax filings and NAPSA services through e-government platforms. This progress would not have been possible without digital technology,” he said, citing the Smart Zambia Institute as the central hub for e-government services.
He added that Zambia’s digital transformation strategy is anchored on secure systems, policy reforms and a digitally empowered public service, but emphasised that partnerships with the private sector remain critical to delivering national goals.
Dr Mweetwa described MTN as a strategic partner in providing cloud services, unified communication solutions, IoT technologies, and cybersecurity tools that protect businesses from emerging threats. He further commended MTN for supporting livelihood-enhancing initiatives such as mobile money and digital financial services that contribute to financial inclusion and social protection programmes.
“Digital is the future. We implore MTN to continue innovating and supporting the country’s transformation agenda,” he said.
In closing, he thanked MTN for hosting the ICT Connect Expo and showcasing solutions that have the potential to reshape business operations and strengthen digital inclusion nationwide.
“Congratulations on attaining 20 years in Zambia. We wish you continued success as you connect and transform our country,” he added.
The ICT Connect Expo continues to provide an interactive experience for customers, partners and stakeholders to explore innovation, test solutions, and learn how technology is driving efficiency, competitiveness and sustainable growth in Zambia’s evolving digital economy.
