The MTN Group has announced plans to dispose of its 50.02% shareholding in South African ISP Afrihost.

The mobile operator united with Afrihost in 2012, providing a foundation for the ISP to offer cloud hosting services, using VMWare technology, at MTN's data centres. MTN then acquired its shareholding in Afrihost in 2014.

Mteto Nyati, MTN SA Chief Executive Officer, says the disposal will allow both parties to focus their attention on their core businesses. "The deal is in line with MTN's strategy of focusing on core business while exploring relevant adjacent growth opportunities. The conclusion of this transaction will go a long way towards streamlining our operations."

"We have enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership with MTN over the years and we are grateful for everything they have done for us. MTN will remain a key supplier of ours, and we look forward to continue working with them for the years ahead," says Gian Visser, Afrihost's Chief Executive Officer.

“As MTN we would like to wish Afrihost well in their business,” concluded Nyati.

In line with the spirit of the agreement, MTN expects this development to have minimal impact on its customers.

Neither MTN or Afrihost could be reached for additional comment at the time of publishing.