Airtel Africa Records Strong Growth as Customer Base Climbs to 189 Million

By Alain Kabinda

Airtel Africa has reported strong financial and operational growth for the quarter ended 30 June 2026, driven by continued investment in network infrastructure, digital capabilities, and customer experience.

The telecommunications company Airtel has shown its customer base grew by 11.6 percent to 189 million, reflecting increased demand for connectivity and digital services across its markets.

Airtel Africa attributed the performance to sustained investments aimed at expanding network coverage, improving service quality, and increasing access to digital solutions.

The company recorded significant growth in data usage, with data customers increasing by 15.5 percent to 87.3 million during the quarter. Smartphone penetration also rose by 5.2 percentage points to 51.0 percent, indicating growing adoption of internet-enabled devices among customers.

Financially, Airtel Africa reported a 21.1 percent increase in revenue in constant currency, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) grew by 24.4 percent in constant currency.

The company’s result demonstrate the impact of its strategy of investing ahead of demand to support Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy.

During the quarter, Airtel Africa added more than 920 network sites, strengthening its ability to provide reliable connectivity to customers. The company also expanded its fibre network to 82,100 kilometres, enhancing the backbone supporting its digital services.

This Airtel Africa progress reflects the commitment of its employees and partners across the continent.

The company has continued investment in technology and infrastructure remains central to its mission of improving digital access and supporting economic opportunities.

It has also continue to invest ahead of demand, by transforming lives and helping to unlock Africa’s full potential.

The latest performance comes amid increasing demand for mobile internet services, digital financial solutions, and reliable communication networks as African economies accelerate their digital transformation.