“ With so many people in Africa still not connected , the telecommunications market still has a lot to do ,” Cuba added .
“ My job , every day , is to ensure that people are connected to the people and the things they love and that they ’ re able to transact , educate , entertain and improve their economic position . That job doesn ’ t stop , but evolves as we get more and more people connected . I ’ m excited by the prospect of being part of the 4IR journey and being key in driving it for the continent .”
According to recent research undertaken by Cable , six out of the top 10 ( and four out of the top five ) countries with the highest data costs in the world are located in Sub-Saharan Africa . Their limited infrastructure , coupled with low levels of market competition , means that data costs are kept at a disproportionately high level .
As a result , improving connectivity within Africa is instrumental – particularly as digital transformation becomes critical to the economic development of businesses and the social opportunities of the population .
Outside of her work with MTN , Cuba is highly involved in ESG initiatives , inspiring the next generation of telecommunications leaders .
She is a member of the Nelson Mandela Investment Committee and is the Founder of the Cuba Foundation , Brighter Lives Africa and The Mentorship Boardroom . These initiatives work to offer bursaries and equal educational opportunities to talented young people in South
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