With Uganda poised to host the highly anticipated
19 th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77 + China Third South Summits 1 , MTN Uganda
has been designated as official telecommunications operator, an acknowledgment of its
multifaceted contributions to the planning and execution of the summits. MTN Uganda has
since November 2023 been diligently collaborating with the Government of Uganda to
provide essential support for the success of these significant events. In recognition of this
dedicated collaboration, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT, Dr Amina Zawedde,
1 The Non-Aligned Movement is a forum of 120 developing countries that advocate for peace,
security, and development. Founded in 1961, it aims to promote cooperation among nations,
independent of major power blocs.
The Group of 77 + China, is a coalition of developing nations established in 1964 that focuses on
economic cooperation and sustainable development. It aims to promote the collective interests of its
member countries and enhance their negotiating capacity in international forums. China, as a major
global power, plays a significant role in international affairs and has observer status at the G77.
today communicated the Government of Uganda’s appreciation to MTN Uganda as a reliable
partner, the basis of which it has been appointed as the official telecommunication partner
for the summits.
Scheduled to take place at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, these
significant gatherings are set to bring together global leaders and stakeholders from the 15 th
to 20 th January 2024 and 21 st to 23 rd January 2024, for the NAM and G77 + China Third
South Summits, respectively.
MTN’s collaboration with the Government of Uganda as the official telecommunications
partner, also encompasses provision of strategic advisory and technical advice for branding
the two summits. The NAM/G77 + China branding commencing at Entebbe International
Airport, through all the routes, and venues the delegates will use ,has been spearheaded by
MTN. The objective of the branding campaign is to position Uganda as a choice destination
for trade and investment, enhance awareness of these important meetings and drive a
sense of pride among Ugandans, for hosting such huge international gatherings in our
country.
This collaboration positions MTN at the forefront, not just as a telecommunication giant but
also a dedicated advocate for the prosperity and success of Uganda in all aspects.
Recognizing the financial contribution worth USD 100,000 towards the co-branding
collaboration, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Vincent Bagiire stated
that “MTN has told Uganda’s story so eloquently over the past 25years. We are pleased to
borrow from the expertise and excellence associated with the MTN brand; an able and
reliable partner in this journey thus far.”
The company has leveraged its marketing and branding prowess to showcase the
remarkable treasures of Uganda, accentuating its natural beauty, rich tourism, and the
nation's unique endowments. The Uganda Tourism Board expressed appreciation for the
massive branding campaign, showcasing the country’s nascent investment potential as the
home of business opportunities, unique beauty, and fascinating cultures.
"The participation of MTN in crafting the branding of the NAM/G77 + China Summit
demonstrates that MTN truly has at its heart the progress of Uganda," said Chairman of the
Board of Directors Mr. Charles Mbire. "Undeniably, MTN is more than just a service provider;
we are a partner woven into the fabric of Uganda's growth and development” he added.
MTN's involvement in Uganda goes beyond conventional business contributions,
emphasizing its role as a responsible corporate citizen. Through strategic collaboration with
government initiatives, MTN aims to contribute not only through taxes but by also providing
its mandated licensed services and actively participating in initiatives that uplift the
community. In September 2023, MTN Uganda facilitated the Uganda – South Africa Trade
and Investment Summit which saw 40 South African companies attend and express interest
in investing in Uganda.
Related to its core ICT business, as the pioneer of 5G technology in Uganda, MTN has
partnered with the Government of Uganda to ensure seamless communication and
connectivity for all participants at the main and all auxiliary venues of the summits, including
hotels of visiting delegations. In addition, working with Government of Uganda agencies
such as NITA U, MTN Uganda has enhanced its technological infrastructure at all venues to
ensure full time connectivity at both the primary Summit venue and the Media Centre at
Hotel Africana.
Working in collaboration with the Uganda Communications Commission, and Ministry of ICT,
MTN has provided 500 “Tourist” SIM cards with free voice (120 minutes) and a superfast
data (5G) combo to ensure that delegates enjoy Uganda’s widest voice and data service,
supported by a second to none customer experience. The Tourist SIM was pioneered by
MTN during the 2 nd Uganda – South Africa Trade and Investment Summit held in September
2023.
MTN is also setting up customer service points at both the venue for the summits and hotels
hosting the delegates; to support their telecommunication needs.
MTN will in addition, exhibit at the East African Business Forum, a side event of the NAM
summit, hosting business leaders and related government agencies.
Welcoming delegates to the Republic of Uganda, Chief Executive Officer Ms Sylvia Mulinge
states, "Uganda is not just a location for MTN; it is our home. And, in turn, MTN is a home for
Uganda. We warmly welcome all delegates to the Pearl of Africa, and invite you to
experience the warmth, beauty, and potential that our beloved nation embodies. MTN
Uganda is honored to be recognized and designated as the official telecommunications
provider of the NAM/ G77 Summits; and we are committed to ensuring their success”. She
went on to affirm that, “this collaboration is the evidence of our dedication to playing a crucial
role in fostering unity, the economic growth of our country, and overall well-being of its
people”.
Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, expressed gratitude for
MTN's exceptional dedication, stating, "We thank MTN for continuously investing in the
progress of our country both in the sector and through other collaborative initiatives with the
government."
MTN is working closely with and continues to support various partners and government
agencies including the Ministry of ICT and National guidance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda National Roads Authority, Kampala Capital City Authority,
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the Office of the Organizing Committee, and thanks them for
their partnership on this project.
As the telecommunications partner for the 19 th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77 +
China Third South Summits, MTN Uganda is proud to contribute to fostering global dialogue,
collaboration, and progress, and is honored to be at the forefront of providing connectivity
that is a key driver in realizing the aspirations of our country Uganda.