Airtel Uganda has reported strong financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025, underscoring the accelerating pace of digital adoption across the country.
The telecommunications operator posted a 41.1% increase in profit after tax to shs 446.9 billion, reflecting sustained growth in data services and disciplined cost management.
The performance comes despite a challenging regulatory environment, including a reduction in local interconnect rates from shs 45 to shs 26 implemented late last year.
In a significant milestone for Uganda’s telecom sector, data revenue surpassed voice revenue for the first time.
Data earnings rose to shs 1,101.7 billion, ahead of voice revenue which stood at shs 1,026.8 billion. The shift highlights changing consumer preferences as individuals and businesses increasingly rely on mobile internet services.
Data revenue grew 22.4% year-on-year, supported by a 19.6% increase in the number of data customers and a 14.8% rise in usage per customer. The figures point to deeper digital penetration across households and enterprises.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Soumendra Sahu attributed the results to a strong focus on operational efficiency and customer experience.
He noted that overall revenue grew by 13.3% while EBITDA increased by 24.5%, with margins improving to 54.9%, driven by continued investment in network quality and service delivery.
Beyond consumer services, Airtel Uganda is expanding its footprint in enterprise solutions through its Network as a Service (NaaS) model under Airtel Business.
The company is providing integrated ICT and connectivity infrastructure to both private sector players and public institutions.
One of the flagship projects under this strategy is the Hoima City Stadium development, where Airtel is delivering end-to-end ICT systems, including secure network infrastructure and high-speed fibre connectivity.
The expansion into business-to-business services is helping diversify revenue streams and cushion the company from volatility in the traditional voice segment.
For shareholders listed on the Uganda Securities Exchange, the results translate into improved returns. The Board of Directors has recommended a final dividend of shs 3.55 per share, bringing the total dividend for the financial year to shs 11.15 per share — a 41.6% increase compared to the previous year.
