Airtel Africa and Vodacom Group have signed a network-sharing agreement in Mozambique, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), pending regulatory approvals.
The deal aims to accelerate the rollout of digital services by sharing fibre networks and tower infrastructure, which could reduce costs and improve coverage in these markets.
“Our partnership with Airtel Africa is a proactive step forward in creating a sustainable, inclusive, and connected digital future for the continent,” said Vodacom Group’s CEO Shameel Joosub.
He noted that infrastructure sharing will allow the companies to provide cost-effective services to more people faster, supporting their goal of connecting 260 million customers by 2030.
Despite growing digital adoption in Africa, challenges remain. Many regions still suffer from poor network coverage and unreliable service, limiting access to fast and affordable internet. For example, in Kenya, some communities experience frequent outages, forcing people to seek signal by climbing trees or travelling long distances.
According to the World Bank, a 10 percent increase in mobile internet usage can lead to a 2.5 percent rise in GDP, highlighting the economic potential of improved connectivity.
Airtel Africa’s CEO Sunil Taldar stressed the importance of expanding fibre connectivity to support 4G and 5G services, saying, “Working with Vodacom, we will open greater access to digital and financial opportunities which will transform the lives of our customers.”
Taldar said the deal will help both companies improve network performance, expand coverage, and offer more mobile, fixed, and financial services across a wider area in Africa.
