MTN distributes 500 smartphones in rural Zambia

By Arnold Mulenga, Zambia Contributor
Johannesburg, 04 Jun 2025
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Pamela Pio, MTN Zambia general manager: corporate services and company secretary.

MTN Zambia donated 500 smartphones in an effort to bridge the digital divide in the country's rural communities.

The donation to people of Kalabo District, Western Province, is the highlight of MTN's 21 Days of Y'ello Care initiative.

The initiative is themed "Connecting at the Roots: connecting communities through the use of digital tools."

Y’ello Care is MTN Group’s flagship employee volunteerism campaign, taking place from 1-21 June 2025.

Since its inception 18 years ago, the campaign has mobilised thousands of MTN employees to support significant programs focused on education, health, youth development, and economic empowerment.

In Zambia, MTN is also commemorating its twentieth anniversary this year.

The Western Province minister, Kapelwa Mbangweta, presided over the launch of MTN Zambia's philanthropic program.

The initiative is being implemented in partnership with OXFAM in Southern Africa, Global Affairs Canada, Keepers Zambia Foundation and Women for Change.

The minister congratulated MTN Zambia and its partners for aligning their efforts with the government's goals of digital inclusion and rural development.

“With these devices and financial support being rendered, our farmers, women and youth are empowered. This support will strengthen resilience in communities that have been severely affected by climate shocks,” Mbangweta said.

Pamela Pio, MTN Zambia general manager: corporate services and company secretary, said: “This initiative is not just about mobile phones. It is about connecting people to opportunities, health, education, business and support networks, especially in times of crisis." 

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