Airtel, Vodacom ink network infrastructure agreement in Africa

Airtel Africa and Vodafone majority owned African telco Vodacom have announced an infrastructure sharing agreement in key markets across the continent including Mozambique, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The initial partnership focuses on sharing fibre networks and tower infrastructure, to accelerate the roll-out of digital services in the target markets.

By leveraging existing infrastructure, the collaboration aims to deliver improved connectivity, faster internet speeds, and more reliable services.

Vodacom Group’s chief executive officer Shameel Joosub said providing connectivity to empower people is at the core of the telco’s strategy.

“Our partnership with Airtel Africa is a proactive step forward in creating a sustainable, inclusive, and connected digital future for the continent,” Joosub said.

“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.”

Airtel Africa’s chief executive officer Sunil Taldar said working with Vodacom will open greater access to digital and financial opportunities.

“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.

“Even as competitors, it has become a business imperative for us to collaborate in the provision of critical infrastructure required to build resilient network with strong capacity to support the 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 acceleration of 4G and 5G technologies in Africa to deliver 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 increase mobile, fixed, and financial services leveraging a broader footprint on the continent.”

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