By Airtel Africa continued investment of $670m in network expansion and modernisation to boost speed, coverage and capacity has began to pay-off as the telecoms company revealed that it so far 36,159 4G infrastructure sites, including more than 15,300 in rural areas.
The leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services across 14 African countries in its Sustainability Report 2025 released today, reaffirmed its corporate purpose of transforming lives by expanding access to essential digital services, supporting inclusive economic growth, and advancing environmental stewardship throughout its operations.
According to the report, Airtel Africa revealed a 2% population coverage across 14 markets (up from 80.4% in 2023/24) adding that in bridging the digital divide, driving financial inclusion and addressing gender inequality, about four million data customers was added to the existing number, an increase of 14.1%.
The showed six million Airtel Money customers with 44.2% Airtel Money customers who are women while seven million Airtel Money agents were added to her distribution network just as the number of women in the workforce across the Group increased by 28.3%.
In 2024/25, Airtel Africa made significant progress in bridging the digital divide, advancing financial inclusion and supporting underserved communities through strategic investment in connectivity, people, and sustainable practices.
Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said: “This year’s achievements, from connecting 2,176 schools through the UNICEF partnership to reaching 44.6 million Airtel Money customers with near-gender parity, prove that the power of technology is a catalyst for gender balance. At Airtel Africa, we believe to not only expanding networks but we’re also building bridges to education, financial security and sustainable growth for Africa’s next generation.”
Airtel Africa is connecting the unconnected, giving millions access to voice, data and mobile money services-driving economic opportunity and enhancing access to essential services.
Through inclusive digital services and affordable financial products, Airtel Africa was able to empower individuals and communities, particularly women, to fully participate in the digital economy.
The Airtel Africa report further showed that 2,176 schools connected to the internet free of charge (up from 1,201 in 2023/24)
By providing free connectivity and online resources to schools, Airtel Africa is helping young people reach their full potential. A growing agent network also supports employment and entrepreneurship opportunities across its footprint.
And to help minimise the impact of her operations on the environment, 500 off-grid sites converted to on-grid power, reducing reliance on diesel generators. while increasing total waste recycled by 93%.
