Airtel Africa, a leading telecommunications and mobile money services provider operating in 14 African countries, has released its Sustainability Report 2025, reaffirming its commitment to driving digital and financial inclusion, promoting gender equality, and enhancing environmental stewardship across the continent.
The report outlines the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) achievements during the 2024/25 financial year, showcasing tangible progress in connecting underserved communities, empowering women through inclusive services, supporting education, and reducing its environmental footprint.
CEO Sunil Taldar emphasized Airtel Africa’s vision to leverage technology as a tool for transformative development.
“This year’s achievements, from connecting over 2,000 schools through our UNICEF partnership to reaching near-gender parity among Airtel Money users, show that technology is a powerful enabler of progress,” Taldar said. “We are not just expanding networks—we are building bridges to education, financial security, and sustainable growth for Africa’s next generation.”
Key ESG Highlights from the 2025 Report
1. Expanding Access to Connectivity
81.2% population coverage across its 14 markets (up from 80.4% in 2023/24)
36,159 active 4G sites, with more than 15,300 located in rural areas
$670 million invested in network expansion and modernization
Airtel Africa’s infrastructure investments have continued to bring voice, data, and mobile financial services to millions, particularly in underserved regions.
2. Advancing Financial Inclusion and Gender Equality
73.4 million data subscribers (+14.1%)
44.6 million Airtel Money users (+17.3%), 44.2% of whom are women
1.7 million Airtel Money agents (+23.4%)
29.2% of the company’s workforce are women (up from 28.3%)
Through affordable digital products and accessible mobile money services, Airtel Africa is empowering communities—especially women—to actively participate in the digital economy.
3. Promoting Education and Employment
2,176 schools connected to free internet (up from 1,201)
Expanded Airtel Money agent network creating jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities
The company’s partnership with UNICEF and investment in digital access is supporting education for thousands of students, while its agent network contributes to grassroots economic development.
4. Environmental Responsibility
500 off-grid sites transitioned to on-grid power, reducing diesel use
93% of operational waste recycled (up 3% from 2023/24)
Airtel Africa continues to invest in greener infrastructure and sustainable waste management as part of its long-term environmental goals.
The report aligns with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and GSMA telecommunications industry standards, reinforcing Airtel Africa’s commitment to transparency and global ESG best practices.
With its 2025 Sustainability Report, Airtel Africa positions itself not only as a telecom leader but also as a catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable development across Africa.
