In a groundbreaking move, MTN Group and Airtel Africa have announced a strategic partnership to share mobile network infrastructure across Nigeria and Uganda.
The deal, aimed at optimizing investment and expanding service coverage, marks a significant shift in how telecom giants are addressing the growing demand for digital and financial services in Africa.
With the cost of building and maintaining mobile networks – particularly for next-generation 5G technologies – rising steadily, both companies are seeking ways to enhance efficiency and reduce duplication. Their collaboration will focus on key areas such as radio access network sharing, fibre infrastructure partnerships, and even the potential construction of new fibre networks, they revealed.
This agreement also opens doors for exploring opportunities in other markets, including Rwanda, Zambia, and Congo-Brazzaville, with both companies exploring commercial and technical agreements that could further reduce costs and increase network reach.
MTN Group CEO, Ralph Mupita, emphasized the growing demand for digital and financial services across the continent, highlighting the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality connectivity. “We continue to invest in coverage and capacity to meet this demand. Through resource-sharing models, we can drive higher efficiencies and improve returns,” he said.
Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, echoed the sentiment, stressing that shared infrastructure would help accelerate network expansion, particularly in rural and underserved regions where building independent networks may not be economically viable.
Importantly, the deal does not limit either company from working with other operators, ensuring continued collaboration across the telecommunications landscape.
As both companies work toward expanding their digital footprints, this landmark partnership sets the stage for a new era of telecom efficiency and connectivity across the continent.
