Sifiso Dabengwa, the former CEO of MTN Group, passed away on Monday morning after a prolonged battle with cancer. Dabengwa, who led MTN from March 2011 until 2015, was a significant figure in the telecommunications industry and is remembered for his impactful leadership.
Dabengwa’s tenure at MTN ended in 2015 when he resigned amid efforts by the company to negotiate a resolution to a record N1.04 trillion fine imposed by Nigeria for MTN’s failure to disconnect over five million customers with unregistered SIM cards. A Zimbabwean national, Dabengwa also briefly served as CEO of MTN Nigeria until 2006.
The news of his death was confirmed by a family spokesperson, Themba Sibanyoni, who was quoted by several South African media outlets. Sibanyoni praised Dabengwa as “a titan in the telecommunications industry and an astute businessman,” adding that his leadership from 2011 to 2015 was marked by “visionary leadership, integrity, and dedication,” which drove significant advancements in the sector.
“Dabengwa left a legacy that extends far beyond the boardroom,” Sibanyoni added, highlighting his influence and the positive mark he left on the industry.
An MTN executive, speaking from the company’s headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa, also confirmed Dabengwa’s death, expressing shock and sadness at the news. She noted that the entire MTN community is in mourning, as Dabengwa remained an integral part of the MTN family, having led the telecommunications giant through several years of growth and challenges.
Dabengwa had been battling cancer for some time and succumbed to the illness in the early hours of Monday. His passing marks the end of an era for those who worked closely with him and those who admired his contributions to the telecommunications industry.
