Outgoing MTN Eswatini Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wandile Mtshali has revealed that his decision to step down from the helm of the telecommunications giant was neither abrupt nor unexpected, but rather a carefully planned move.
Speaking during MTN’s Igniting Hope podcast, where he was interviewed by Eswatini Observer Managing Editor Mbongeni Mbingo, Mtshali explained he had been preparing to leave the company for some time.
“Departure from a business such as MTN cannot be a decision made out of the blue. It is something that has to be planned and well thought out, unless there is an extraordinary reason forcing you out,” he said.
Mtshali’s exit was officially announced on August 13 by MTN Eswatini Board Chairperson Nompumelelo Dlamini, who confirmed that his contract would come to an end after five years of service.
Dlamini praised Mtshali for steering the company through one of its most challenging periods, the COVID-19 pandemic, while also securing multiple accolades. These included the Best Network Award (2023), top scores in customer Net Promoter surveys, and the prestigious Investors in People Platinum Certification.
She further revealed that Mtshali would be succeeded in the interim by MTN Executive Jerry Soko, effective November 1, while the process to recruit a substantive CEO was underway.
Reflecting on the announcement, Mtshali shared that he had been overwhelmed by messages of support from family, friends and business associates.
“I have received countless messages saying ‘well done’ from people who have walked this journey with me. It has also been a period of reflection, where I have been able to reconnect with many individuals I hold dear,” he said.
The outgoing CEO admitted that the announcement had initially been emotionally taxing, stating that it had not been an easy period, as he had to lean on his spiritual father for guidance. However, he said he had now regained his energy and was looking forward to the next two months as he wraps up his responsibilities and prepares for a new chapter.
Mtshali emphasised that his decision was rooted in long-term personal and professional aspirations.
“My decision was about what I want to do in the future. Earlier this year, I took time to reflect and realised I still have the ambition to become a businessman and run a successful enterprise of my own,” he revealed.
He added that he had discussed his intentions with mentors, close friends, and family before finalising his decision.
Inside MTN Eswatini, news of his departure reportedly came as a surprise to many staff members.
“You can only confide in a select few who help you through the process,” Mtshali explained.
Tributes have poured in, including one from Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo, who described him as a “good leader, a good man and a level five chief executive.”
Responding, Mtshali said he was humbled:
“These sentiments mean a lot, especially given the challenges MTN has faced over the years.”
Looking back at his five-year tenure, Mtshali highlighted digital transformation as one of the company’s greatest achievements, noting that MTN had pushed hard to remain at the forefront of innovation while supporting Eswatini’s digital agenda.
He also credited colleagues for their innovation and creativity:
“The teams I worked with were excellent. They were always finding ways to deliver new and exciting offerings for customers.”
As his final days at MTN approach, Mtshali assured stakeholders that he would remain fully committed until the very end, ensuring a smooth transition for stability and customer confidence.
Although he did not reveal details about his next move, he hinted at pursuing business opportunities and continuing to contribute to Eswatini’s economic development.
‘I Leave MTN with a Clean Record’
As he prepares to bow out of his role, Mtshali expressed satisfaction in leaving the mobile company without controversy.
“I am leaving on a clean slate, without any scandals. That is something I am proud of, because it shows my time was dedicated to building the business and serving customers.”
He stressed that leadership required constant growth, humility and integrity.
“Leadership is about learning something new every day. It is about working with people, caring for them and leading them with integrity,” he said.
Mtshali hopes to be remembered for his integrity, contribution to digital growth and legacy of stability.
He revealed that one of his earliest professional ambitions was to roll out a countrywide 5G network. Although that dream has not yet materialised, he expressed confidence in MTN’s ongoing 4G expansion.
“With MTN currently rolling out 4G, it shows we are on the right track,” he noted.
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