MTN Ghana has publicly refuted claims that its official mobile applications are responsible for unexpectedly depleting customers' data bundles. The denial, issued by the telecommunications operator on July 4, 2026, follows a series of user complaints on social media and other platforms alleging that apps like the MTN Pulse app consume data even when not actively in use.
In a statement, the company acknowledged the customer concerns but stated its applications are designed to operate efficiently within normal parameters. "We wish to state categorically that our apps do not drain data," an MTN Ghana spokesperson said. The company suggested that data depletion could be attributed to other factors, such as background updates from other applications or operating system services, and encouraged users to monitor their data usage through their phone settings.
The controversy touches on a sensitive issue for mobile network operators across Africa, where data affordability remains a key concern for millions of users. MTN, one of the continent's largest telecoms groups with operations in nearly 20 countries, has invested heavily in digital services and mobile money, making the reliability and perceived cost of its data services critical to its brand reputation and customer trust.
Meanwhile, in a separate development within the East African market, rival operator Safaricom has indicated it is considering adjustments to its popular Fuliza overdraft service. The M-Pesa-powered service, used by millions in Kenya, allows customers to complete transactions even when they have insufficient funds in their M-Pesa account, with the deficit covered as a short-term loan.
Safaricom's Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Stephen Chege, noted that the company is actively reviewing the service limits in response to customer feedback and economic conditions. "We are looking at the Fuliza limit... we are looking at how we can make it more affordable and accessible to our customers," Chege said in an interview. While he did not specify new limit figures or a timeline, the comments suggest a potential increase in the borrowing thresholds for many users.
The Fuliza service has become a cornerstone of Safaricom's financial offerings since its launch, generating significant revenue and deepening customer reliance on the M-Pesa ecosystem. Any changes to its structure or limits are closely watched, as they directly impact the financial flexibility of a large portion of the Kenyan population. The consideration of such changes occurs against a backdrop of broader discussions about responsible lending and digital credit in markets where regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
These parallel narratives from MTN in West Africa and Safaricom in East Africa highlight the ongoing balancing act for major telecoms and fintech players. They must continuously innovate and optimize their digital products to drive engagement and revenue, while simultaneously managing customer perceptions of cost, value, and transparency. As data consumption and digital credit become increasingly integral to daily economic life, operator responses to user feedback can significantly influence market dynamics and competitive positioning.