In a strategic move aimed at enhancing internet access and reducing operational expenses, telecom giants MTN Group and Airtel Africa have sealed a significant agreement to share mobile network infrastructure in Nigeria and Uganda.
This collaboration is expected to transform connectivity in underserved regions while optimizing costs for both companies.
The deal, announced on Wednesday, aligns with a growing trend in the telecom industry, where operators seek to maximize efficiency through resource-sharing instead of independent network rollouts. By pooling infrastructure, MTN and Airtel Africa anticipate faster expansion into rural and remote areas, where deploying individual networks is often financially unfeasible.
“We are driven by the vision of delivering digital solutions that drive Africa’s progress,” said Ralph Mupita, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Group. “There are opportunities within regulatory frameworks for sharing resources to drive higher efficiencies and improve returns.”
Airtel Africa’s CEO, Sunil Taldar, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in fostering digital and financial inclusion. “As we compete fiercely in the market, we are also committed to building common infrastructure, within permissible regulatory frameworks, to create a robust digital highway while avoiding duplication of costly investments,” he stated.
The agreement comes as African telecom firms navigate rising demand for data services and the financial strain of maintaining cutting-edge networks, particularly for 5G expansion. Infrastructure-sharing, already prevalent in sectors like oil and gas, allows operators to share resources like radio access networks and fiber optics, minimizing expenditure while maximizing service reach.
Following the success of their agreements in Nigeria and Uganda, both companies have set their sights on additional markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia. They are considering a range of collaborative efforts, from sharing existing fiber networks to jointly developing new infrastructure where needed.
According to the statement released by both firms, the partnership does not restrict them from entering similar arrangements with other industry players. “Throughout this process, the parties will continue to function as independent market entities and will compete freely in shared markets,” the statement read.
As Africa’s digital economy continues to grow, such partnerships could prove instrumental in bridging connectivity gaps, lowering costs, and ensuring broader access to reliable mobile and internet services.
