NAIROBI,Kenya– Airtel Africa and Vodacom Group have signed an infrastructure-sharing agreement covering Mozambique, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, subject to regulatory approvals in each market.
The arrangement will see the two telecom operators share fibre networks and tower infrastructure to accelerate the rollout of digital services.
Both companies say the move will help reduce costs, speed up deployment, and expand connectivity to more customers, including those in underserved areas.
Under the plan, Airtel and Vodacom will leverage existing assets to improve internet speeds, reliability, and access to digital services.
The companies say the deal is also intended to support the development of high-capacity networks needed for 4G and 5G technologies.
“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,” said Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub.
“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.”
“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,” said Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar.
He added that 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.
According to the partners, the move 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.
