This is the biography of Sifiso Dabengwa, a Zimbabwean-born business executive who was the former CEO of MTN Group. He served as the CEO of MTN Group from 2011 to 2015. Dabengwa’s career was marked by significant achievements and challenges, particularly during his tenure at MTN. He sadly died on 1 September 2024.
Early Life and Education
Sifiso Dabengwa was born on 5 April 1958 in Zimbabwe. He pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Zimbabwe. In 1990, he obtained an MBA from Wits Business School, which equipped him with the skills necessary for his future roles in the business world.
Sifiso Dabengwa Early Career
After finishing his engineering degree, he spent a few years as a trainee with British Rail. He then moved on to work with Zimbabwe Railways before joining a consulting engineering firm in Pretoria, where he worked on projects in Botswana, Swaziland, and the former Bophuthatswana.
He worked for Eskom, the South African electricity public utility, where he gained valuable experience in management and operations. By 1999, he was the executive director of distribution.
Sifiso Dabengwa At MTN Group
In 1999, Dabengwa joined MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile network operator. He started as managing director of South African operations. He was later elevated to COO and served as CEO of MTN Nigeria until 2006.
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Sifiso Dabengwa As CEO of MTN Group
Sifiso Dabengwa Biography [Image: Full View]
In March 2011, Dabengwa was appointed CEO and president of MTN Group. His tenure was marked by significant growth and technological advancements. Under his leadership, MTN expanded its services across Africa and the Middle East, serving nearly 220 million subscribers.
Dabengwa’s tenure was not without challenges. In 2015, MTN faced a record US$5.2 billion fine from Nigerian authorities for failing to disconnect unregistered SIM cards. This regulatory issue led to Dabengwa’s resignation in November 2015. He stepped down “in the interest of the company and its shareholders”.
Post-MTN Career
After leaving MTN, Dabengwa continued to influence the African business landscape. He served on the board of Eskom and worked with IT company Gijima. His expertise was sought after by various organisations looking to navigate the complexities of African business and technology.
Personal Life
Dabengwa was married to Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, a prominent South African corporate executive currently the CEO of Naspers South Africa. She previously co-founded Sigma Capital and served as the CEO of Shanduka Group.
Sifiso Dabengwa Death
Sifiso Dabengwa passed away on 1 September 2024 after a battle with colon cancer. A family spokesperson announced his death, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across Africa and beyond. Dabengwa’s legacy as a visionary leader in the telecommunications industry remains significant.
References
- Sifiso Dabengwa MTN CEO – Who is Who Zimbabwe
- Statement on the passing of Sifiso Dabengwa – MTN Group
- MTN CEO Sifiso Dabengwa steps down – Business Tech
