Zambia Boosts Digital Connectivity with USD 107M Airtel Network Expansion
The inspection provided an opportunity for the Ministry to assess ongoing infrastructure investments, engage with Airtel leadership and technical teams, and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to expanding digital access.
The Ministry of Technology and Science in Zambia conducted a ministerial site visit to the Nyumba Yanga and Chalala (Shantumbu) Airtel telecommunications towers on 18 December 2025, as part of efforts to enhance network quality and accelerate digital transformation nationwide. The inspection provided an opportunity for the Ministry to assess ongoing infrastructure investments, engage with Airtel leadership and technical teams, and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to expanding digital access.
During the visit, officials evaluated the operational status, technical performance, and safety of the towers, as well as innovative power solutions such as solar-backed systems aimed at ensuring 24/7 network availability. The assessment also included reviewing Airtel Zambia’s nationwide network expansion programme and quality-of-service improvement initiatives.
Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, acknowledged public concerns over dropped calls and overall service quality, emphasizing the Government’s active engagement with Airtel to ensure decisive measures were taken. He highlighted the company’s USD 107 million investment in 406 new sites as a significant step toward improving connectivity and providing greater access to digital services for citizens. The Minister also praised regulatory reforms designed to accelerate infrastructure deployment, including streamlined approval processes for tower construction.
Airtel Zambia Managing Director, Mr. Hussam Baday, confirmed that 126 new sites are already operational, with the inspected towers forming part of the broader rollout scheduled for completion by March 2026. He noted that the USD 107 million investment is the largest single-year capital expenditure in Airtel Zambia’s history, aimed at bridging the digital divide, enhancing service quality, and reinforcing network resilience.
The ministerial visit underscored the strong partnership between the Government and the private sector in advancing Zambia’s digital agenda. The inspection highlighted tangible progress in network expansion, innovative power solutions, and the commitment of both government and industry to improving digital inclusion, economic growth, and the quality of life for all Zambians through reliable telecommunications services.
