Airtel Zambia Makes US$1 Billion Market Capitalization

 Airtel Zambia Makes US$1 Billion Market Capitalization

By Alain Kabinda

Speaking at Airtel Zambia Celebration Airtel Zambia Managing Director Mr. Hussam Baday stated that this achievement of a US$1 billion market capitalization is more than a financial milestone; it is a reflection of the trust and confidence that millions of Zambians place in Airtel every day.

“This success belongs to our customers, whose loyalty, belief in our brand, and continued use of our services have made this growth possible,” Mr. Baday said.

Mr. Baday further highlighted that over the years, Airtel Zambia has remained focused on disciplined execution, strategic investment, and innovation. The company has invested more than US$107 million in network expansion, rolling out over 4,100 4G and 5G sites across the country. These investments are aimed at connecting communities, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that no Zambian is left behind in the digital era.

Mr. Baday also added that Beyond connectivity, Airtel remains committed to social impact through investments in education, internet connectivity for schools, and digital inclusion initiatives that empower young people and communities.

“Innovation continues to be a key driver of growth, with the company focusing on accessible digital and financial services that simplify lives and support businesses,” said Mr. Baday.

He further noted that Airtel Zambia's market value has increased more than fivefold over the past two years, rising from approximately US$182 million to over US$1 billion. This growth reflects both the company's strong performance and the improvement in Zambia's macroeconomic environment, including lower inflation and increased investor confidence.

Mr. Baday said Airtel Zambia will continue investing in network expansion, particularly in underserved areas, while strengthening digital and financial services and enhancing customer experience. The company remains committed to supporting Zambia's digital transformation journey.

And speaking at the same ceremony Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) Head of legal Ms. Namunyuka Jere said, the crossing of the US$1 billion market capitalization# threshold by Airtel Zambia is a historic achievement not only for the company but also for Zambia's capital markets. Airtel Zambia becomes only the fourth company in LuSE's history to reach this milestone.

This achievement reflects years of strategic investment, sound management, and strong shareholder confidence. More importantly, it signals growing regional and international confidence in Zambia as an investment destination and demonstrates that Zambia's capital markets are maturing and creating real value.

Ms. Jere said that this milestone strengthens the case for more Zambian businesses to consider listing on the stock exchange as a platform for growth, accountability, and capital raising.

Airtel Zambia was commended for its commitment to transparency, good corporate governance, and long-term value creation.

She also recognized the role played by shareholders, both institutional and retail investors, whose investments contributed to the company's growth. The exchange reaffirmed its commitment to deepening Zambia's capital markets through new listings, improved digital access, and expanded investor education.

Meanwhile Ministry of Science and Technology Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu congratulated #Airtel Zambia for achieving a US$1 billion market capitalization, describing the milestone as significant not only for the company but also for Zambia's ICT sector, capital markets, and economy.

The achievement was linked to the government's ongoing economic reforms, which have improved macroeconomic stability, strengthened investor confidence, and created an enabling environment for private sector growth.

Dr. Habeenzu highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and industry through policy dialogue platforms that help remove barriers to growth such as Increased ability to attract investment for ICT infrastructure expansion, #Growth in quality employment opportunities within the ICT sector, Expansion of financial inclusion through mobile financial services, increased digital connectivity across the country and also Enhanced investor confidence in Zambia's economy and ICT sector.

Mr. Habeenzu further noted that internet penetration has grown significantly in recent years and that the ICT sector continues to play an increasingly important role in national economic development.

The achievement was described as Zambia's emergence onto the global stage of billion-dollar enterprises, demonstrating that the country's ICT sector is innovative, competitive, and capable of attracting significant investment.

The US$1 billion market capitalization milestone achieved by Airtel Zambia represents a landmark moment for the company, Zambia's capital markets, and the national economy. It reflects strong customer trust, successful corporate strategy,# increasing investor confidence, and a supportive economic environment. Stakeholders across government, the private sector, and the investment community view this achievement as a foundation for continued growth, innovation, and digital transformation in Zambia.

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