MTN Group and Airtel Africa Partner to Expand Network Sharing in Uganda and Nigeria
MTN Group and Airtel Africa have signed strategic network-sharing agreements in Uganda and Nigeria, aiming to enhance digital and financial inclusion while optimizing infrastructure costs. The initiative seeks to expand coverage, particularly in underserved rural areas, and improve mobile service quality for millions of customers.
MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita highlighted the growing demand for data services across the continent. “We are driven by the vision of delivering digital solutions that drive Africa’s progress. The demand for digital and financial services continues to rise, and to meet this, we are investing in coverage and capacity to ensure quality connectivity. Resource sharing under regulatory frameworks allows us to achieve higher efficiencies and improved returns,” said Mupita.
Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar emphasized the benefits of shared infrastructure. “We compete fiercely on service and brand strength, but at the same time, we are leveraging common infrastructure, within regulatory allowances, to build a more robust digital highway. This ensures greater financial and digital inclusion while reducing duplication of costly infrastructure,” Taldar noted.
This move aligns with a global trend of network sharing, where telecom operators collaborate to improve service delivery and manage costs efficiently. Through resource sharing, operators can offer more reliable, high-quality mobile services while maintaining competitive market dynamics.
Beyond Uganda and Nigeria, MTN and Airtel Africa are exploring similar agreements in Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia. Potential collaboration areas include Radio Access Network (RAN) sharing and fibre infrastructure development to bolster connectivity across Africa.
Despite the collaboration, both companies will continue to operate independently, ensuring competition remains strong within the markets. Additionally, the agreement does not restrict either company from partnering with other telecom operators in their respective countries.
