Former chief executive of MTN Group, Raymond Sifiso Dabengwa, has been laid to rest on Saturday, September 7, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa. 

Dabengwa, a Zimbabwean-born South African corporate executive, died on Sunday, September 1, after battling colon cancer. He was aged 66. 

According to the memorial and funeral service programme, Dabengwa was buried at Fourways Memorial Park in Johannesburg. A memorial service was held at Rosebank Catholic Church on Friday, with prayers at his home in Sandhurst, Sandton.

The funeral was attended by top executives from MTN including MTN Group president and CEO, Ralph Mupita; board member, Mike Ajukwu; and senior manager of external relations at MTN Nigeria, Funso Aina. Former MTN Nigeria CEO, Mike Ikpoki; and former board member Gbenga Oyebode were also in attendance.

Dabengwa’s career with MTN began in 1999 when he joined as managing director of its South African operations. He was group president and CEO from 2011 to 2015.

The Zimbabwean also served briefly as MTN Nigeria CEO.

MTN Group released a statement on its website on September 2, acknowledging his passing “with deep sadness”.

“Sifiso was a key figure in MTN’s 30-year journey and his contributions to both the company and the telecommunications industry are held in high regard,” the statement said.

“During his tenure, Sifiso’s leadership was instrumental in guiding MTN through significant phases of growth and transformation. His strategic vision and deep understanding of the telecommunications sector were key to MTN’s success during this period.

“Sifiso was respected not only for his professional achievements but also for his integrity, humility, and the respect he showed to all who worked with him. He was a mentor to many and a leader who exemplified the values of commitment and service.”

The statement quoted Mr Mupita as saying: “Sifiso’s impact on MTN and the broader industry was significant. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward.”

Dabengwa is survived by his wife Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, four children and his sibling.