Airtel Announces US$107 Million Network Expansion Across Zambia
Airtel Zambia has announced a major US$107 million nationwide network expansion, aimed at enhancing coverage, improving service reliability, and meeting the country’s growing demand for digital connectivity.
The investment, the largest the company has made in a single year, will fund the rollout of 406 new sites, with 121 already operational and the remaining 285 expected to be completed by March 2026.
Speaking at a media engagement session in Lusaka, Airtel Zambia Managing Director, Hussam Baday, described the expansion as a landmark infrastructure commitment that underlines Airtel’s long-term vision for a digitally empowered Zambia.
“Connectivity is essential for education, business, healthcare, and everyday communication. This investment responds directly to customer feedback and is designed to strengthen the network, expand capacity, and improve the overall user experience across the country,” he said.
The 406-site rollout combines new coverage areas, capacity expansions in high-demand zones, and network resilience enhancements. The programme is expected to deliver faster data speeds, more stable call quality, and improved network availability nationwide.
“Our teams have successfully delivered 121 sites, and customers will notice gradual improvements as the remaining sites are commissioned. We are fully committed to providing a stronger, more resilient network for all our users,” added Mr Baday.
The expansion also incorporates upgraded equipment and enhanced backup systems to ensure network stability, particularly in critical areas such as hospitals, clinics, and schools.
“We are building a network that can meet Zambia’s evolving digital needs. This programme addresses congestion, extends rural coverage, and strengthens performance in vital service areas,” he said.
Airtel emphasised that customer experience remains central to its operations. “These upgrades are aimed at ensuring customers receive the quality of service they expect. Improvements will be rolled out progressively, and we will continue to keep the public informed as the programme advances,” Mr Baday concluded.
