Johannesburg, 17 Jul 2014
MTN is giving its subscribers a once-in-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Dr Nelson Mandela on 18 July by streaming live a star-studded concert featuring multiple award-winning local and international artists to subscriber handsets and devices.
This tribute concert to the global icon will be taking place on Mandela Day, as part of the national 67 minutes contribution towards the global movement for good.
The concert will feature multiple award-winning Afro-pop sensation Mafikizolo, Uhuru of Y-tjukutja fame, Nigerian-based MTV award-winning performer Davido and Praiz, legendary producer and record label owner Oskido and many more. The live concert will be streamed to the world for a duration of 67 minutes.
Larry Annets, Chief Marketing Officer: MTN South Africa, says: "Tata has done great things for our country, we have thought long and hard on what we can do for our customers using our digital space. Live concert that is zero rated seemed appropriate. In addition to voice, customers are now increasingly using data for convenience and in a great deal for work purpose. We didn't want to take them away from work but to allow them to be part of this birthday celebration.
"In just four days, we have seen approximately a million downloads of the Mandela tribute song by Harri Songz which is free through MTN's Play platform. We continue to give our customers innovative value adds and services as we look beyond the voice needs," continues Annets.
"Nelson Mandela's legacy resonates with every one of us, from Cape to Cairo. As a performing artist, I have been touched by his story of resilience, humility, selflessness and forgiveness. I am humbled and honoured that I was selected to perform in a tribute concert in honour of this towering figure that represents the good that we all aspire to become," says Davido.
"I'm very honoured and excited to be part of this illustrious line-up. Music is my love and what a gift to share. Tata Mandela has always been about unity and sharing the stage with other artists for a good cause brings the fondest memories of him. For you Tata - we will rock the stage," says Mafikizolo.
"MTN is excited to bring millions of fans together to share these moments through this new experience. This concert will also create a powerful new way for artists to continue to grow their global fan base. This is by no means an ordinary concert - subscribers can share the streaming around the globe," Annetts enthuses.
He adds: "What better way to celebrate the legacy of the father of the nation than through music which has always been an integral part of our cultural makeup."
This honorary 67 minute performance will be streamed live on www.mtn.co.za and www.mtnblog.co.za. MTN platforms will be zero-rated.
To enable you to keep the memory of Tata Madiba alive, you can also download your free "Tribute to Mandela" CallerTune. Simply dial *123*5# to download the track.
MTN will also hand over toilets and a kitchen to the Re Hloka Eng After Care Centre in partnership with the Deputy Minister of Social Development on 18 July 2014 in Limpopo.
MTN employees will be handing over a mobile library at Dr Havenga Primary School in Witpoortjie, near Krugersdorp.
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