MTN and Airtel Join Forces to Cut Costs and Expand Network Coverage
MTN Group and Airtel Africa have signed a major network-sharing agreement in Nigeria and Uganda, aiming to reduce operational costs and expand mobile connectivity in underserved areas. The deal will see both telecom giants collaborate on infrastructure, including Radio Access Network sharing and fibre partnerships, with the possibility of building new fibre networks where needed.
Announced on Wednesday, the partnership is expected to optimize expenses and improve service quality, particularly in rural regions where digital access is still limited. Both companies have faced financial challenges due to the depreciation of the naira, prompting a reduction in network infrastructure investments to manage foreign exchange losses and rising energy costs.
MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita highlighted the growing demand for digital services in Africa, stressing the need for strategic investments. He noted that sharing resources within regulatory frameworks will enhance efficiency and improve returns while ensuring high-quality connectivity.
Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar described the agreement as a practical step toward expanding digital infrastructure while maintaining cost efficiency. He emphasized that by avoiding infrastructure duplication, the partnership will drive digital and financial inclusion across the region.
Following the success of their Nigeria and Uganda agreements, both telecom giants are considering similar partnerships in other markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia.
MTN operates in 19 countries across Africa and the Middle East, serving 287 million customers, while Airtel Africa caters to over 156 million users in 14 sub-Saharan African nations. Their collaboration is expected to accelerate digital expansion and enhance connectivity for millions across the continent.
