Airtel Africa’s Sustainability Report 2026 Shows Progress in Digital Inclusion, Education and Financial Services

Airtel Africa  has published its Sustainability Report 2026, covering the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. Titled “Unlocking opportunities through responsible growth, ” the report outlines its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance across 14 sub-Saharan markets, showing how the company is linking commercial expansion with social and environmental impact.

A major focus of the report is the expansion of digital infrastructure to improve connectivity and reduce the digital divide. During the reporting period, Airtel Africa deployed more than 3,250 new network sites, bringing its total to 40,378 sites and around 81,900 kilometers of fiber. This expansion increased population coverage to 81.9% and supported a 10.5% rise in customers, reaching 183.5 million users, including 84.2 million active data customers. The company also scaled a geolocation analytics tool across 13 markets to better identify and resolve coverage gaps at a granular level.

In financial services, Airtel Africa’s Airtel Money platform recorded strong growth. The customer base grew by 21.3% to 54.1 million users, with penetration at 29.5%. Transaction volumes increased by 35.2% in constant currency, reaching $196 billion, driven by services such as microloans, international transfers, and merchant payments. The agent network expanded by 39.1% to 2.4 million agents, supporting financial inclusion, while female participation reached 44.1% through targeted support for women-led businesses and financial literacy initiatives.

On social impact, the company reported progress in education and workforce inclusion. Through its foundation and education programs, Airtel Africa connected 3,296 schools to free internet access, up from 2,176 previously, improving digital learning opportunities. Internally, female representation in the workforce rose to 29.9%, reflecting ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts.

The report also highlights data security and trust as a central pillar of its operations. This is reflected in the Chief Information Security Officer’s statement:

“Our commitment to data security and privacy underpins the trust placed in us by customers, partners and regulators. We continually strengthen our security frameworks, proactively manage evolving risks and uphold rigorous standards to safeguard information and protect the integrity of our operations.”

– Prashant Nair, Chief information security officer, Airtel Africa 

People and culture are also emphasized as key drivers of performance. The Chief Human Resources Officer stated:

“Sustainable business performance begins with our people. We continue to build a high-performing, values-led culture where continuous learning and excellent execution drive results. Our focus on people ensures we remain resilient, competitive and create long-term value across our OpCos.”

– Rogany Ramiah Chief Human Resources Officer, Airtel Africa 

At board level, sustainability leaders stressed the broader impact of the company’s expansion:

“Airtel Africa’s growth is creating real opportunity. Access to connectivity, financial products and education can unlock the potential of a young and ambitious continent. 2 Annika Poutiainen Board member and Airtel Africa’s sustainability champion”

– Annika Poutiainen, Board Member and Sustainability Champion, Airtel Africa

The Chief Executive Officer reinforced the link between growth and responsibility:

“In a continent as dynamic and diverse as Africa, the needs are significant, but so is the potential. And it’s our responsibility to ensure that as we grow, we’re creating meaningful value for the people and communities we serve.

– Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa plc

The report further highlights the role of the Airtel Africa Foundation in addressing structural barriers to opportunity across the continent. Its chair summarized its mission:

“Through the Foundation, we are committed to transforming lives by tackling the structural barriers that limit opportunity across Africa. By advancing financial empowerment, education, digital inclusion and environmental protection, we aim to equip young people and communities with the tools to build a more inclusive and prosperous future.”

– Olusegun Ogunsanya, Chair, The Airtel Africa Foundation

The Foundation also emphasizes collaboration with local teams and partners to scale impact, focusing on inclusive learning, skills development, and opportunities for women and young people.

Overall, the report positions Airtel Africa as both a commercial telecom leader and a development enabler, linking infrastructure growth with social progress while strengthening governance, security, and sustainability frameworks across its operating markets.