Airtel Africa has reaffirmed its corporate purpose of transforming lives by expanding access to essential digital services, supporting inclusive economic growth and advancing environmental stewardship throughout its operations.

Airtel revealed this in its Sustainability Report 2025, released yesterday, where it disclosed that it has made significant progress in bridging the digital divide, advancing financial inclusion and supporting underserved communities through strategic investment in connectivity, people and sustainable practices.

Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, said: “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 in not only expanding networks but we’re also building bridges to education, financial security and sustainable growth for Africa’s next generation.”

The Guardian checks showed that the telco is the second largest operator in Nigeria with 58.9 million users and 33.9 per cent market reach.

The telecom firm said it is providing underserved communities with access to reliable network and connectivity, where 81.2 per cent population coverage across 14 markets (up from 80.4 per cent in 2023/24) are covered.

Airtel Africa said it has invested in 36,159 4G infrastructure sites, including more than 15,300 in rural areas.

According to it, there is a continued investment of $670 million in network expansion and modernisation to boost speed, coverage and capacity.

“Airtel Africa is connecting the unconnected, giving millions access to voice, data and mobile money services – driving economic opportunity and enhancing access to essential services,” it stated.

In terms of bridging the digital divide, driving financial inclusion and addressing gender inequality, the telecommunications firm boasts of 73.4 million data customers (+14.1 per cent vs 2023/24); 44.6 million Airtel Money customers (+17.3 per cent), with 44.2 per cent Airtel Money customers who are women (+6.2 per cent vs 2023/24); 1.7 million Airtel Money agents in our distribution network (+23.4 per cent vs 2023/24) 29.2 per cent women in the workforce across the Group (up from 28.3 per cent vs 2023/24).

Through inclusive digital services and affordable financial products, Airtel Africa said it is empowering individuals and communities, particularly women, to fully participate in the digital economy.

Unlocking potential through education and employment opportunities, the firm disclosed that 2,176 schools are connected to the Internet free of charge (up from 1,201 in 2023/24).

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.

“Minimising the impact of our operations on the environment 500 off-grid sites converted to on-grid power, reducing reliance on diesel generators. 93 per cent of total waste recycled (+3 per cent vs 2023/24).”