Airtel Africa and Vodacom Group have entered into a strategic network infrastructure sharing agreement in key African markets, including Mozambique, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), subject to regulatory approval in each country.
The deal represents a major step in advancing digital inclusion and expanding access to reliable, high-speed connectivity across the continent.
The initial phase of the partnership will involve sharing fibre networks and tower infrastructure to accelerate the rollout of digital services. This approach will increase connectivity for customers, reduce infrastructure costs for operators, and improve speed to market.
By making use of existing infrastructure, the collaboration is expected to deliver faster internet speeds, more reliable network performance, and enhanced customer experiences. It will also help extend digital services to underserved areas, narrowing the digital divide and providing greater access to online resources, financial services, and modern communication tools.
Vodacom Group’s chief executive officer, Shameel Joosub, said:
“Providing connectivity to empower people is at the core of our strategy. Our partnership with Airtel Africa is a proactive step forward in creating a sustainable, inclusive, and connected digital future for the continent.
Through infrastructure sharing, we can provide cost-effective services to more people, more rapidly, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age. As we fulfil our ambition to connect 260 million customers by 2030, the need for scalable and cost-efficient network solutions becomes increasingly significant.
This partnership provides us with the opportunity to narrow the digital divide, empowering more individuals and communities through digitalisation across the continent. It is aligned with our purpose to connect for a better future.”
Airtel Africa’s chief executive officer, Sunil Taldar, said:
“This partnership is aligned with our unwavering commitment to delighting our customers by always making our network available to them even in the remotest locations. Working with Vodacom, we will open greater access to digital and financial opportunities which will transform the lives of our customers while complying with all regulatory requirements.
Even as competitors, it has become a business imperative for us to collaborate in the provision of critical infrastructure required to build a resilient network with strong capacity to support emerging digital technologies as well as the growing need for data-enabled products and services.
Accelerating the deployment of fibre connectivity is a key enabler in the roll-out of 4G and 5G technologies in Africa, delivering the high-speed, low-latency, and reliable connections needed for modern digital applications.
This partnership allows for further opportunities for both operators to enhance network performance, extend coverage, and expand mobile, fixed, and financial services by leveraging a broader footprint on the continent.”
This Airtel Africa and Vodacom deal sounds promising for improving digital access across the continent. Sharing network infrastructure could lower costs and expand coverage, much like a Virginia Mortgage helps people access opportunities. Excited to see how this boosts connectivity and inclusion for everyday users.
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