MTN Group says anti-migration protests in South Africa have not disrupted its operations or resulted in any direct boycotts, despite growing tensions surrounding the demonstrations.
In a statement, MTN Group said: "At this stage, there has been no impact on our operations, nor have there been direct boycotts. As ever, the safety and security of our people and property is paramount and that is something that is constantly being taken into account."
Africa's largest telecoms company operates in more than 15 markets across Africa and the Middle East, with South Africa and Nigeria its largest operations.
The group serves more than 300 million subscribers with voice, data, fintech and digital services.
The comments come as anti-migration groups prepare demonstrations across South Africa on 30 June, calling for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
MTN is particularly exposed to any regional fallout because, although it is headquartered in South Africa, a significant proportion of its earnings are generated elsewhere on the continent, particularly in Nigeria, its largest market by subscribers and one of its biggest contributors to group earnings.
The South African government's Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration said Malawi, Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique and Zimbabwe are among the countries that have undertaken or requested the voluntary repatriation of some of their nationals as tensions have escalated.
The committee said the repatriation process is voluntary and coordinated with the respective governments.
It also reiterated that enforcement of immigration laws remains the responsibility of the state and warned against vigilantism, intimidation and the spread of misinformation.
MTN added: "As a pan-African organisation, we believe in the rule of law and the importance of meaningful dialogue to shape a more inclusive, connected and prosperous continent. That is why we continue to participate in discussions with stakeholders, including relevant authorities and business groupings across the continent."
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