MTN Ghana has officially launched the 2025 edition of its flagship volunteerism programme, 21 Days of Y’ello Care, under the theme “Connecting at the Roots – Connecting Communities through the Use of Digital Tools.”
The annual initiative, now in its 18th year, brings together MTN staff from across the country to support community development through technology, education, and sustainability projects.
This year’s campaign zeroes in on digital inclusion, especially in underserved and remote communities, while also advancing environmental sustainability goals through renewable energy and green infrastructure.
National digital empowerment drive
Volunteers to train youth, support small businesses, and upgrade local infrastructure
Speaking at the launch in Accra, Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Ghana, said the company is deploying thousands of staff across the country to implement locally tailored, tech-driven interventions aimed at bridging Ghana’s digital divide.
“This year, we’re focusing on upgrading facilities, teaching digital skills, and helping people and small businesses connect to the digital world,” Blewett said.
“Whether it’s giving small businesses a web presence or training the youth in digital and tech skills, our goal is to uplift communities and empower the next generation.”
He emphasised that MTN tracks the long-term impact of Y’ello Care initiatives through continuous monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that the benefits extend well beyond the 21-day campaign period.
“For me, the most fulfilling part of my job is seeing the real difference these initiatives make in people’s lives,” he added.
Digital inclusion anchored in sustainability
In addition to the Y’ello Care campaign, Blewett revealed MTN Ghana will exceed its planned capital expenditure for the year, investing more than $300 million into network expansion and quality improvement, surpassing its earlier $250 million target.
“This will push our total five-year investment in Ghana to over $1 billion,” he noted.
“We want to make sure every Ghanaian has access to the best quality of service. It’s not a luxury—it’s a necessity.”
The CEO also outlined MTN’s progress in environmental sustainability, including ongoing efforts to transition data centres and offices to solar power, reduce the company’s carbon footprint, and lead by example.
“Even I’m transitioning to an electric vehicle,” he said, affirming MTN’s leadership in green transformation.
Govt endorses MTN’s leadership in sustainable innovation
Representing the Government of Ghana, Mr. Stephen Dzelu, Technical Director at the Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability, praised MTN’s efforts to align corporate goals with national sustainability and digital inclusion agendas.
“MTN is not just connecting people; it is transforming lives,” Mr. Dzelu said.
“This year’s focus on digital inclusion aligns perfectly with our national goals, and we commend MTN for being a true agent of change.”
He called on other businesses to follow MTN’s model by investing in long-term, people-centered community partnerships.
He also encouraged the public to actively participate in the 21 Days of Y’ello Care challenge, which includes televised activities, youth training sessions, and community-based projects in all 16 regions of Ghana.
“Let’s all get involved. Volunteer, contribute ideas, and support this national effort to build a more inclusive and sustainable Ghana,” he urged.
The annual event aims to secure high participation levels of MTN Ghana staff in high-impact social projects to uplift and empower the local communities in which the company operates.
18 years of impact and growing
Since its inception in 2007, the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign has mobilised thousands of MTN employees across the country to champion projects focused on education, health, youth development, and economic empowerment.
Over the past six years alone, the initiative has reached 107,034 lives through the volunteer efforts of 14,376 MTN staff, who have committed over 56,000 hours to direct community engagement.
Each edition of Y’ello Care is tailored to address the most urgent challenges facing communities.
The 2025 theme underscores the critical need to bridge the digital divide in rural and marginalized areas, where limited internet access continues to hinder access to education, healthcare, financial services, and employment.
Through Y’ello Care 2025, MTN continues to reaffirm its belief in the transformative power of technology and its commitment to leaving no one behind.
With investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and digital literacy, the telecom giant is not only connecting Ghana—it’s shaping its future.
The “21 Days of Y’ello Care” is a competition amongst MTN operations to secure the highest number of staff involved in volunteerism and initiating projects with remarkable impact.
The country with the highest staff participation wins the prize money of $100,000 to be reinvested in community projects.
