Airtel Africa Powers Zambia’s Digital Growth with Expanded Network and Mobile Money Investment
Airtel Africa has continued to strengthen its operations across Africa, including Zambia, through sustained investment in network expansion, improved data capacity and the rapid growth of Airtel Money, supporting millions of customers and advancing financial inclusion.
In its financial results for the nine months ended 31 December 2025, the telecommunications group reported strong demand for mobile and internet services, driven by increased smartphone use and growing reliance on digital platforms for communication, business and access to services.
Airtel Africa’s total customer base across the continent rose to 179.4 million, while the number of customers using data services increased to 81.8 million. Smartphone penetration across the group reached 48 per cent, reflecting the continued uptake of affordable smartphones and mobile internet services.
Average data usage per customer also increased during the period, supported by enhanced network investment and growing demand for digital services, including messaging, education, entertainment, e-commerce and online tools.
The company said Airtel Money continues to play an expanding role in improving access to financial services. During the third quarter, Airtel Money surpassed 50 million subscribers, reaching 52 million users, with annualised transaction values exceeding US$210 billion across the continent.
Accelerated capital investment enabled Airtel Africa to improve coverage and network capacity, with approximately 2,500 new network sites deployed across its markets. The company also expanded its fibre network by around 4,000 kilometres, bringing the total to more than 81,500 kilometres, while overall population coverage increased to 81.7 per cent.
The East Africa region, which includes Zambia, recorded strong performance, supported by rising demand for voice, data and mobile money services, alongside ongoing network upgrades.
Airtel Africa also announced a partnership with SpaceX to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across its 14 markets, subject to regulatory approvals. The service is expected to support text messaging and limited data services in areas without terrestrial network coverage, helping to extend connectivity to remote and underserved communities.
Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the results reflected continued progress against the company’s strategic priorities. “We remain focused on investing in best-in-class connectivity, accelerating financial inclusion through our mobile money platform, and delivering an improved customer experience,” he said.
