Millions of mobile users in Nigeria and Uganda are set to benefit from enhanced mobile services as MTN Group and Airtel Africa have finalized network sharing agreements in both countries. This strategic collaboration aims to expand digital and financial inclusion across the African continent while adhering to local regulatory requirements.
The network sharing agreements focus on achieving improved network cost efficiencies, wider coverage, and the delivery of superior mobile services, particularly to underserved populations in remote and rural areas. By pooling resources, MTN and Airtel Africa intend to bridge the digital divide and bring the advantages of modern connectivity to more customers.
“At MTN, we are committed to driving Africa’s progress through digital solutions. The sustained demand for data services across our markets necessitates continuous investment in coverage and capacity. Network sharing within regulatory frameworks offers opportunities to enhance efficiencies and improve returns,” stated Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and CEO.
Also, Sunil Taldar, Airtel Africa CEO, emphasized the dual benefits of the agreement: “While maintaining fierce competition in the market through our unique brands and service offerings, we are simultaneously building common infrastructure within regulatory boundaries. This approach facilitates a more robust digital highway, promotes digital and financial inclusion, and avoids unnecessary infrastructure duplication, ultimately benefiting our customers through operational efficiencies.”
This initiative reflects a growing global trend in the telecommunications industry, where network sharing enables operators to deliver world-class, reliable mobile services to a wider audience while effectively managing costs. The collaboration has the potential to significantly improve service quality for millions of users across Africa.
Building on the success of the agreements in Nigeria and Uganda, MTN and Airtel Africa are exploring similar opportunities in other African markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia. These potential collaborations encompass various forms of network sharing, such as RAN sharing, commercial and technical agreements for fiber infrastructure sharing, and the joint construction of fiber networks where necessary.
Both MTN Group and Airtel Africa are committed to fostering collaboration with other mobile operators within their respective countries to maximize the benefits of network sharing. Importantly, both companies will continue to operate as independent market entities and maintain their competitive positions. This collaborative approach does not preclude either party from engaging with other operators within any given market.