Bayobab, a subsidiary of MTN Group, has announced the appointment of Rabih Kanaan as its Managing Director for the East to West (E2W) region. This pivotal role places Rabih at the helm of Bayobab’s operations across key African markets, where he will lead strategic initiatives to enhance connectivity and strengthen the company’s position as a leader in the continent’s telecommunications sector.
Rabih’s Journey with Bayobab: From Fibre Visionary to Regional Leader
Rabih Kanaan joined Bayobab in April 2019, initially serving as Senior Manager: Dry Segment Fibre Projects, and later as Senior Manager: Subsea & Terrestrial Fibre. In these roles, he spearheaded projects that significantly expanded Bayobab’s fibre network across Africa, reinforcing the company’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
Key milestones under his leadership include:
- Activation of Subsea Investments: Rabih was instrumental in driving the deployment of major subsea projects, including 2Africa and Equiano, which have bolstered connectivity across the continent.
- Strategic Partnerships: He cultivated relationships with key suppliers and stakeholders, ensuring cost efficiency and reduced time to market.
- Recognition for Excellence: Rabih’s outstanding contributions earned him the prestigious Unique Contributor Award for several consecutive years.
Leadership for a Critical Phase
Mohammed Aliyu, Chief FibreCo Officer at Bayobab, expressed confidence in Rabih’s appointment:
“The team is excited to welcome Rabih as Managing Director: East to West. His proven leadership and exceptional contributions have left a lasting impact on the organisation, and as we enter a critical phase of the East to West project, we are confident his expertise, vision, and innovative approach will drive continued success. This appointment reflects our commitment to strengthening connectivity across the region and advancing Africa’s digital future.”
A Wealth of Industry Experience
Rabih brings over 19 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, primarily with MTN OpCos, where he held key leadership roles. Notably, he served as the Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) for MTN South Sudan, navigating complex challenges to deliver innovative solutions.
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His deep understanding of fibre infrastructure, coupled with an intimate knowledge of Africa’s diverse telecom markets, uniquely positions him to guide Bayobab through its next growth phase.
Educational and Professional Credentials
Rabih’s expertise is reinforced by a strong academic and professional foundation, including:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management
- Telecommunication Science Certifications
- Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
- Advanced certifications in Leadership, Marketing, Sales, Business Strategies, and Program Management
These qualifications underline his ability to lead complex projects and drive strategic growth in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.
Bayobab’s Commitment to Africa’s Digital Future
Rabih’s appointment comes at a crucial time as Bayobab continues its mission to enhance connectivity and empower communities across Africa. The East to West project is a cornerstone of this vision, designed to bridge infrastructure gaps, improve access to digital services, and foster economic growth.
Conclusion: A Promising Future Under Rabih’s Leadership
As Bayobab enters this new chapter, Rabih Kanaan’s extensive experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to innovation are expected to play a transformative role. His appointment signals Bayobab’s determination to remain at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution, ensuring that the benefits of connectivity reach every corner of the continent.
With Rabih at the helm, the future of Bayobab and its impact on Africa’s telecommunications landscape has never looked brighter.
