MTN Group has achieved a major global recognition in digital rights and corporate accountability, ranking second worldwide in the 2026 Ranking Digital Rights (RDR) Index. The achievement makes MTN the first telecommunications company headquartered in an emerging market to secure a position among the top three performers globally, highlighting the company’s growing leadership in transparency, governance, and the protection of digital rights across its operating markets.
The Ranking Digital Rights Index is widely recognized as one of the most important global benchmarks for evaluating how technology and telecommunications companies respect and protect fundamental human rights. The assessment measures corporate policies, governance frameworks, transparency practices, and public disclosures related to critical issues such as privacy, freedom of expression, and responsible data management. MTN’s rise from sixth place in the previous ranking to second place globally demonstrates significant progress in strengthening its digital rights framework.
The company achieved a score of 42 out of 100, with improvements recorded across all three RDR assessment categories. Key factors contributing to the stronger performance included enhanced governance disclosures, the implementation of a comprehensive advertising content policy, and stronger measures focused on user data protection and privacy. These developments reflect MTN’s continued efforts to embed digital human rights considerations into its operations and decision-making processes across multiple markets.
Operating across diverse regulatory and socioeconomic environments throughout Africa, MTN faces the challenge of balancing digital inclusion with responsible governance and human rights protections. The company has emphasized that its digital rights journey is an ongoing process of adaptation and improvement, continuously evolving to address emerging risks, stakeholder expectations, and changes in the digital landscape. This approach reflects a commitment to translating policy commitments into practical actions that benefit customers and communities.
As digital connectivity continues to expand across Africa, MTN remains focused on strengthening transparency, accountability, and responsible business practices. The Group’s latest ranking reinforces its position as a leader in promoting ethical and inclusive digital transformation while ensuring that privacy, freedom of expression, and user protection remain central to its operations. The recognition also highlights the growing role African technology and telecommunications companies can play in shaping global standards for responsible digital development.
