In one year, the customer base of the mobile money business of Airtel Africa Plc, Airtel Money, increased by 17.3 per cent to 44.6 million.
This information was revealed by the company in its 2025 Sustainability Report, with 44.2 per cent of Airtel Money customers accounting for women, 6.2 per cent higher than the figure a year earlier, as the Airtel Money agents in its distribution network soared by 23.4 per cent to 1.7 million.
Airtel Africa also disclosed that in the period under review, its data customers went up by 14.1 per cent to 73.4 million as data customers as it empowers individuals and communities, particularly women, to fully participate in the digital economy through inclusive digital services and affordable financial products.
It was also revealed that to minimise the impact of its operations on the environment, 500 off-grid sites were converted to on-grid power, reducing reliance on diesel generators, with 93 per cent of total waste recycled.
The company promised to continue to cut down the impact of its operations on the environment through investment in renewable energy solutions and responsible waste management.
In the area of education, Airtel Africa said 2,176 schools connected to the internet free of charge versus 1,201 schools a year earlier.
By providing free connectivity and online resources to schools, Airtel Africa is helping young people reach their full potential. A growing agent network also supports employment and entrepreneurship opportunities across its footprint.
The telco stated that it recorded 81.2 per cent population coverage across 14 markets, with 36,159 4G infrastructure sites, including more than 15,300 in rural areas. It also sustained its investment of $670 million in network expansion and modernisation to boost speed, coverage and capacity.
“This year’s achievements, from connecting 2,176 schools through the UNICEF partnership to reaching 44.6 million Airtel Money customers with near-gender parity, prove that the power of technology is a catalyst for gender balance.
“At Airtel Africa, we believe to not only expanding networks but we’re also building bridges to education, financial security and sustainable growth for Africa’s next generation,” the chief executive of Airtel Africa, Mr Sunil Taldar, said.