TechPression

Category: Telecommunication

  • MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita becomes GSMA Deputy Chairman

    MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita becomes GSMA Deputy Chairman

    Ralph Mupita has been elected as the Deputy Chair of the GSMA Board of Directors for the remaining term of the Board, which ends in 2026. MTN Group confirmed the appointment in a statement on Thursday.

    He will assist the chair and board in directing the organisations strategic course in this capacity, which represents the global mobile operators and businesses in the larger mobile ecosystem. 

    “This appointment is a great honour, as it comes at a time of rapid developments in technology and increasing digital adoption across Africa. Mobile technology will play a critical part in addressing the pressing challenges facing our communities and unlocking the full potential of Africa and the rest of the Global South, ensuring that no one is left behind in this journey toward a more connected future,” Mr Mupita said.

    “I am committed to supporting the strategic direction of the GSMA, which plays a pivotal role in representing the global mobile ecosystem. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and positive change in the industry,” he added.

    Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, stated, “My warmest congratulations to Mr. Mupita on being elected as the Deputy Chair of the GSMA Board. His experience will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of our industry. I look forward to working closely with him and the board.”

    About Ralph Mupita

    Mr Mupita has been the Group President and CEO of MTN Group since September 2020. Prior to that, he was the Chief Financial Officer of MTN Group from April 2017. Since joining MTN, he has supervised the successful listing of MTN subsidiaries in Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Uganda and contributed to the development of the Group’s strategy and financial position.

    Mr Mupita served as CEO of Old Mutual Emerging Markets, which offered financial services to individuals and corporations in 19 countries in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, before joining MTN. He graduated from Harvard Business School’s General Management Program with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Hons) and an MBA from the University of Cape Town.

    About GSMA

    The GSMA is a global organisation that unifies the mobile ecosystem to find, create, and deliver innovation that is essential to societal change and productive business environments. Its goal is to fully utilise connectivity for the benefit of society, business, and individuals. Connectivity for goods, industry services and solutions, and outreach are the three main pillars that the GSMA provides for its members as representatives of mobile operators and organisations throughout the mobile ecosystem and related industries. 

    At the MWC and M360 series of events, this activity entails advancing policy, addressing the most pressing societal issues of this dispensation, supporting the technology and interoperability that enable mobile, and offering the largest platform in the world for bringing together the mobile ecosystem.

  • Cameroonian court unfreezes MTN’s $23 million bank account after two years

    Cameroonian court unfreezes MTN’s $23 million bank account after two years

    MTN, a South African mobile operator, announced on Wednesday that a Cameroonian appeals court had unfrozen its bank accounts, which had been seized in 2022 due to a loan dispute with a Cameroonian business tycoon.

    In September 2022, a court order froze MTN Cameroon’s accounts, which held 14 billion CFA francs (approximately $23.20 million). This freeze put the company’s operations in jeopardy, as MTN Cameroon, part of Africa’s largest mobile carrier, serves approximately 15 million users in the country.

    The dispute stemmed from a real estate loan issue between South Africa’s First National Bank (FNB) and Ahmadou Baba Danpullo, a Cameroonian business mogul who owns Bestinver Group. 

    When FNB liquidated several of Danpullo’s properties in South Africa due to a loan default, he retaliated by targeting South African companies operating in Cameroon, including MTN. This led to a Cameroonian court freezing MTN’s accounts as part of a third-party debt order.

    In 2023, MTN Cameroon revealed that its funds would be moved to an escrow account overseen by the court registrar. 

    However, the company appealed the court’s decision, and on February 24, 2024, the appeals court ruled that Bestinver Group companies had no right to seize MTN’s accounts. In a statement dated March 31, MTN welcomed the decision, affirming the legitimacy of its defence and the restoration of its rights.

    Despite this ruling, Mbanzehe Aggee, one of Danpullo’s solicitors, stated that he would continue pursuing legal action to seize the assets. “We are following legal procedures to obtain an enforcement order,” he said.

    In recent years, MTN Cameroon has encountered legal and regulatory issues that are indicative of larger conflicts between international corporations and regional business and political interests.

    Story background 

    On September 5, 2024, Techpression reported that despite a continuing court-ordered seizure of its bank accounts, MTN Cameroon, a subsidiary of South Africa’s MTN Group, pledged to continue operating in the Central African nation.

    The accounts, which contain more than 14 billion CFA francs (about $23.72 million), have been frozen since September 2022 due to a legal dispute between First National Bank (FNB) of South Africa and business tycoon Ahmadou Baba Danpullo of Cameroon.

    The controversy started when FNB liquidated Danpullo’s South African holdings after a real estate loan default. Danpullo retaliated by going after other South African companies doing business in Cameroon, such as MTN and Chococam, a division of Tiger Brands, in an attempt to recoup his losses.

    Danpullo bases his case on the assertion that the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) of South Africa, which owns shares in FNB, has substantial holdings in MTN Cameroon and Chococam.

    MTN Cameroon, on the other hand, denied any involvement in the disagreement, claiming that PIC is not a shareholder in the business and that the identities of the company’s stockholders are publicly available in Cameroonian courts.

    The then MTN Cameroon CEO Mitwa Ng’ambi expressed regret over the development, saying, “We do not understand how we have been brought into this matter that we are not even remotely involved in.”

    She further stated that the circumstance has hurt the business’s operations and diverted funds from its primary goal of offering digital solutions in Cameroon.

    Ng’ambi stated, “This case poses a serious distraction from our business purpose,” adding that MTN has been compelled to take legal action to challenge the court’s ruling.

    Due to the blocked funds necessary for day-to-day operations, MTN faced more challenging circumstances to continue paying its 200,000 distribution agents and over 800 staff.

  • Vox to offer OneWeb satellite in South Africa via Q-KON

    Vox to offer OneWeb satellite in South Africa via Q-KON

    On Tuesday, Q-KON and Vox announced an expanded partnership, with Vox joining as a OneWeb Partner through Q-KON’s Twoobii super smart satellite solutions.

    This strategic move aims to enhance Vox’s enterprise connectivity portfolio by incorporating Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite services, which will provide enterprise customers with reduced latency, superior network reliability, and faster data transfer speeds.

    Read also: Unlocking Africa’s Potential: How technology and investment can drive job creation

    Q-KON and Vox deliver LEO solutions to enterprises

    The partnership between Q-KON and Vox is designed to leverage the advantages of LEO satellite constellations. By integrating Twoobii-OneWeb solutions, Vox can offer its enterprise customers a primary connectivity option or a high-availability backup for traditional terrestrial systems. This mainly benefits underserved markets, enabling them to access reliable voice services with defined Quality of Service (QoS) configurations.

    Theo van Zyl, Head of Wireless Solutions at Vox, noted, “Becoming a OneWeb Partner through Q-KON is a strategic move that allows both companies to leverage synergies and enhance value for customers. Therefore, African enterprise users can now fully utilise LEO satellite connectivity.”

    Kathleen Morris, Satellite Product Manager at Vox, emphasised the company’s commitment to strong partnerships, stating, “At Vox, our growth has always been built on trusted technology collaborations. Thus, as a partner of Eutelsat OneWeb LEO services through Q-KON, we can offer our customers a full suite of connectivity options.”

    Read also: Smart village initiative brings AI benefits to rural Zambia

    Strengthening satellite connectivity across Southern Africa

    This partnership strengthens satellite connectivity across Southern Africa by providing high-performance, resilient connectivity for enterprises.

    Hendrik Bezuidenhout, Account Director: Key Accounts at Q-KON, highlighted the value of securing Vox as a Twoobii-OneWeb reseller, stating, “Providing world-class LEO services to enterprise customers throughout Southern Africa further strengthens the business case for satellite connectivity across all sectors.”

    Vox’s selection of Twoobii VSAT Access has already proven successful in offering seamless voice and data connectivity across South Africa, with speeds ranging from 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps. This solution is optimised for off-grid users and offers rapid deployment and high uptime availability of 99.5 per cent.

    Integrating LEO services will further enhance Vox’s ability to deliver robust and reliable connectivity solutions to its enterprise customers.

  • IFC invests $100 million in Airtel Africa to boost operations in Kenya and Rwanda

    IFC invests $100 million in Airtel Africa to boost operations in Kenya and Rwanda

    Airtel Africa, one of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest mobile network operators, is poised to receive a substantial investment of $100 million from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This funding, announced on March 28, 2025, is designed to support capital expenditures and debt refinancing for Airtel’s subsidiaries in Kenya and Rwanda.

    Investment details and allocation

    The IFC’s $100 million loan will be divided between Airtel Kenya and Airtel Rwanda, with $70 million allocated to Kenya and $30 million to Rwanda.

    This investment extends previous financial support provided by the IFC, including a $200 million facility in April 2024 aimed at enhancing operations in Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The funding will primarily focus on expanding network infrastructure, modernising services, and refinancing existing debt to strengthen Airtel Africa’s financial health in these markets.

    Read also: Airtel supports Nigeria’s 3MTT program with N1 billion

    Airtel Africa operates in 14 African countries, serving approximately 156.6 million customers as of September 2024. The company’s mobile services in East Africa are a crucial contributor to its earnings, second only to Nigeria. The IFC’s continued support reflects its commitment to helping Airtel address challenges in markets where access to local funding remains underdeveloped.

    Strategic expansion and financial health

    This investment is part of Airtel Africa’s broader strategy to bolster its position in the African telecommunications sector. The company aims to meet the growing demand for broadband internet across the continent by enhancing network infrastructure and promoting financial inclusion through services like Airtel Money.

    The IFC’s funding will be delivered in the local currencies of Kenya and Rwanda, further supporting the financial stability of Airtel’s operations in these countries[3]. As noted by the IFC, the funding is linked to previous investments and will help upsize operations in covered countries.

  • MTN Uganda empowers Kabarole women, children with UGX 15.4 million vocational training equipment, education support

    MTN Uganda empowers Kabarole women, children with UGX 15.4 million vocational training equipment, education support

    On Friday, MTN Foundation, the company’s corporate social responsibility division, donated UGX 15.4 million worth of vocational training equipment to the Empowering Single Mothers and Deprived Children in Education (ESMDCE) initiative in Kabarole District.

    This assistance is a component of MTN’s Changemaker Program, which aims to improve educational outcomes and promote economic empowerment for marginalised communities.

    ESMDCE was established in 2023 with the goal of giving impoverished children and single mothers access to education and skill development, two major obstacles to economic mobility in Uganda.

    In addition to providing 135 children with school fees and academic supplies to aid in their education, the donation will help 71 women by giving them the resources they need to start tailoring businesses.

    Read also: MTN partners with Airtel Africa to improve network access in Nigeria and Uganda

    Donated vocational training equipment 

    Three industrial machines, an overlock machine, a baby lock machine, ten foot-pedal machines, semi-industrial machines, a cupboard, a flat iron, sewing threads, sewing needles, and various sewing supplies are among the vocational training equipment included in the donation.

    In addition to allowing the children to continue their education, these resources will give the women the skills they need to work for themselves—two essential steps in ending the cycle of poverty.

    According to ESMDCE founder Robert Kugonza, MTN Uganda’s assistance will improve the lives of those who are most in need.

    “This support will equip the beneficiaries with practical skills and educational opportunities that will shape their futures. For many, this is the first step towards financial independence and the chance to change the course of their lives,” he said.

    MTN’s commitment to empower underserved communities

    Andrew Tusubira, Regional Commercial Head – West at MTN Uganda, emphasised that the telecom company is committed not only to ensuring everyone enjoys the benefits of a modern, connected life but also to promoting a life of dignity and opportunity for all.

    “This partnership reflects our belief that empowerment goes beyond just providing resources; it’s about creating sustainable opportunities that uplift entire communities. Together, our ambition is unstoppable,” he said.

    According to Tusubira, MTN Uganda is investing UGX 500 million in 25 projects nationwide as part of the second cohort of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, which is run by the MTN Foundation. These projects will support organisations that are promoting change in important areas like economic development, health, and education.

    Along with ESMDCE, MTN Uganda has also provided support for educational initiatives run by the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, vocational training at the Hands of Hope Skilling Centre, and paediatric cancer care at the Bless A Child Foundation.

    Additional projects are planned, such as the Bushenyi Carpentry Project, the Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs, and water access projects in Lira and Soroti.

    Read also: MTN South Africa pioneers Africa’s initial satellite phone call

    Previous MTN empowerment initiative

    Through the MTN Changemakers initiative, MTN Uganda invested UGX 500 million in 25 community-driven projects last year.

    These initiatives are a component of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 plan, which aims to alleviate social injustices and support the nation’s social and economic advancement.

  • Telkom finalises sale of Swiftnet to Actis and Royal Bafokeng Holdings

    Telkom finalises sale of Swiftnet to Actis and Royal Bafokeng Holdings

    The sale of Telkom’s mast and tower division, called Swiftnet, to a group led by Actis and Royal Bafokeng Holdings has been finalised. This calculated action signifies a dramatic change in Telkom’s financial and operational priorities.

    Actis owns a dominant 70 percent of Towerco Bidco Proprietary Limited in this consortium, with Royal Bafokeng Holdings keeping the remaining 30 percent. 

    The transaction was announced following Telkom’s notification to its shareholders on Monday morning that all suspensive conditions associated with the R6.75 billion sale had been successfully fulfilled.

    Last year, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and the Competition Tribunal both gave their approval to the deal.

    Nevertheless, the competition watchdog’s approval was subject to some undisclosed requirements that were thought to be essential for the deal to progress.

    Read also: Telkom announces price hike for broadband and voice services for South African subscribers

    Deal proceeds to pay off debt

    Telkom has stated that it will use a portion of the sale’s proceeds to improve its overall balance sheet and pay down its current debt.

    “The completion of the Swiftnet sale marks an important milestone for Telkom,” stated Serame Taukobong, the Group CEO of Telkom. 

    He underlined that this deal will strengthen the company’s position as South Africa’s digital backbone by allowing it to investigate growth prospects consistent with its data-led growth strategy.

    Swiftnet, which has a portfolio of about 4,000 masts and towers, is being sold as part of Telkom’s larger plan to focus on its core business.

    Taukobong remarked, “This transaction is a pivotal moment in Telkom’s implementation of our data-led strategy under OneTelkom.”

    Funding of net-generation technology infrastructure 

    He added that in addition to strengthening the company’s balance sheet and lowering debt, the sale will generate extra funds that can be used to fund the infrastructure of next-generation technology. 

    To support its data-driven growth goals, Telkom keeps moving forward with the alignment of its asset portfolio and the sale of non-core properties. Following its withdrawal from its investment in Octotel, a fibre network operator, Actis acquired SwiftNet. 

    In 2020, Actis paid R2.3 billion to acquire a majority stake in Octotel. Another big shift in the telecom industry occurred in March when a group led by African Infrastructure Investment Managers declared that it had agreed to buy Octotel from Actis for an undisclosed sum.

  • Ethio Telecom and DStv launch affordable entertainment packages with data bundles

    Ethio Telecom and DStv launch affordable entertainment packages with data bundles

    Ethio Telecom and MultiChoice Ethiopia entered into a partnership on Friday aimed at enhancing the entertainment industry by offering clients access to a variety of DStv Ethiopia channels in a bundle with modern fibre broadband internet and mobile data packages.

    Fixed broadband services are playing a crucial role in modernising daily life and boosting productivity for both consumers and businesses. These services facilitate virtual meetings, cloud gaming, online education, shopping, e-commerce, and smart home applications.

    Read also: Airtel supports Nigeria’s 3MTT program with N1 billion

    Services to be offered 

    Along with rapidly growing its 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G mobile networks, Ethio Telecom is providing fast internet infrastructure to its clients by substituting fibre (also known as Fibre-to-the-Room, or FTTR, or Fibre-to-the-Home, or FTTH) for copper lines. 

    The partnership with DStv, announced on Friday, leverages this expanded capacity to offer various entertainment options, allowing customers to access entertainment content alongside fibre broadband internet and mobile data bundles.

    Through this service, customers can enjoy entertainment at their convenience—whether watching football, live broadcasts, movies, dramas, news, and more—on computers, smartphones, smart TVs, and even non-smart TVs. The service also enables users to pay for both entertainment and internet services with a single bill via Telebirr. 

    With no need for a satellite dish or cable, fault repair becomes easier, and the service supports urban development standards by enhancing connectivity.

    How to get started

    Through Telebirr or My Ethiotel (*999#), users can easily purchase various monthly mobile data package options, including DStv’s Gojo, Beteseb, Meda, Meda Plus, and Premium packages (which include popular local and international channels) with discounts up to 35%. This service enables users to watch entertainment programs wherever they are. 

    Additionally, Ethio Telecom’s sales centres provide savings of up to 26.5 per cent for consumers who purchase bundles packaged with fibre broadband internet.

    Read also: M-PESA and LakiPay bring enhanced digital payments to Ethiopia

    Ethio telecom’s commitment to provide inclusive digital experiences for its customers

    The business is dedicated to stepping up its efforts to offer and introduce all-inclusive, easily accessible digital services and solutions that cater to the demands of its clients’ digital lifestyles. The move reinforces its commitment to provide high-quality, reasonably priced, and inclusive digital experiences across the nation.

    Through continuous innovation in telecommunications and digital services, Ethio Telecom plays a key role in modernising business operations, streamlining commercial activities, and improving citizens’ daily lives. To meet the growing demands of its customers and foster a digital lifestyle, Ethio Telecom is expanding its digital infrastructure and service offerings to further enhance customer satisfaction and experience.

  • MTN South Africa pioneers Africa’s initial satellite phone call

    MTN South Africa pioneers Africa’s initial satellite phone call

    On Thursday, MTN South Africa and Lynk Global announced the completion of Africa’s first satellite-to-mobile phone call. The groundbreaking trial took place in Vryburg, a small agricultural town in the North West province of South Africa. This milestone marks a significant step toward addressing connectivity challenges in underserved and remote African areas.

    The trial utilised low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology to test voice call quality and SMS capabilities using a standard, unmodified mobile device.

    “The technical trial was part of our work to find potential solutions to the challenges of providing coverage in underserviced, rural and remote areas,” said Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa. He emphasised that this proof-of-concept demonstrated how MTN’s ground-based cell towers could be complemented by LEO satellites to expand coverage.

    Dan Dooley, Lynk Global’s chief commercial officer, highlighted the technology’s universal compatibility: “Importantly, this technology is device-agnostic, ensuring compatibility with existing mobile units and requiring no special modifications.” The trial was conducted after receiving approval from South Africa’s telecom regulator, ICASA, to use radio frequencies on MTN’s licensed spectrum for the test duration.

    Read also: MTN ends 8-year sponsorship of South Africa’s national rugby team

    MTN pursues LEO satellite partnerships to enhance network reach

    Low-earth orbit satellites are increasingly being explored as a viable option for providing high-speed internet and mobile connectivity in areas where traditional infrastructure is difficult or expensive to deploy.

    MTN Group has been actively pursuing partnerships with satellite providers since 2024, aiming to integrate LEO technology into its broader network strategy.

    Molapisi noted that leveraging satellite partnerships could help MTN achieve its ambitious goal of 99% broadband population coverage. “The implications of potentially leveraging satellite partnerships will not only help MTN achieve its goal but, most importantly, benefit all South Africans,” he stated during the announcement.

    This achievement also positions MTN as a leader in satellite-enabled mobile services on the continent. Competitors like Vodacom and Cell C are exploring satellite partnerships to enhance connectivity offerings. Vodacom previously announced its collaboration with Amazon’s Project Kuiper LEO satellites in 2023.

    The successful trial underscores the potential of satellite technology to bridge digital divides and provide reliable connectivity to remote areas, paving the way for broader adoption across Africa.

  • MTN South Sudan launches free data bundling for new smartphone users

    MTN South Sudan launches free data bundling for new smartphone users

    MTN South Sudan officially launched its Open Market Smartphone Bundling service on Thursday, marking a significant step forward in the country’s digital connectivity.

    As part of the offer, new smartphone users will receive 1GB of free data per month for six months, totalling 6GB, which is valid for one week each month.

    Read also: Techpression brings Tech Breeze to JABU, unveiling opportunities for students in AI and digital innovation

    MTN South Sudan’s commitment to digital access 

    Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce Kur Beek attended the event, which emphasised MTN’s steadfast dedication to empowering South Sudanese citizens via improved digital access.

    The Chief Marketing Officer Kamau Njoroge Henry then presented the innovative offer’s expected market impact and strategic marketing approach.

    Afterwards, Khamis Daniel Waiwai, Manager of Products and Services, gave a thorough rundown of the Smartphone Bundling Service, including all of its features and advantages.

    Goals to close South Sudan’s digital gap

    The initiative aims to make smartphones more accessible, bridge the digital divide, and foster greater participation in the digital economy.

    MTN South Sudan CEO Monzer A. emphasised the strategic importance of the service in empowering communities and improving connectivity.

    “Exciting times at @MTNSSD ! We take a bold step forward with the launch of our open market smartphone bundling. This a significant move towards enhancing mobile accessibility across the country. Together, we are shaping the future of connectivity! #DigitalInclusion #MTN,” CEO Monzer stated while reacting to the development through his X handle.

    Read also: MTN Group reports 15% decline in revenue due to Nigeria’s currency devaluation, Sudan conflict

    Public-Private Partnerships to drive digital inclusion 

    Kur Beek, Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce, wrapped up the event with remarks on the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in promoting digital inclusion.

    This launch is a big step towards bringing South Sudan together and promoting digital advancement.

    “Stay connected with MTN South Sudan as we continue to drive digital innovation and empower the nation,” MTN South Sudan stated.

  • Airtel Uganda sees 13.9% growth in customer base, driven by surge in data usage

    Airtel Uganda sees 13.9% growth in customer base, driven by surge in data usage

    Airtel Uganda’s customer base increased by 13.9 percent to 16.9 million in 2024, driven by increasing demand for data. This was revealed at the company’s 2024/2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Tuesday, where they reflected on a successful year and outlined plans for the future.

    The company, led by Chairman Hannington Karuhanga and Managing Director Soumendra Sahu, presented its 2024 performance, telling a story of tenacity, growth, and a strong desire to connect Uganda in the current digital era.

    Read also: Airtel partners with Network International to promote financial inclusion across Africa

    Average revenue per user increased by 11.2%

    Due to its innovations like home broadband routers, 7.3 million now use Airtel’s services. 5.45 GB of data were used per client, and average revenue per user increased by 11.2 percent.

    2024 was a significant year for Karuhanga and also a turning point for the company. With appreciation, he said, “This has been a defining chapter.”

    He further stated, “Our first year as a publicly listed company proved our strength: delivering growth, creating value, and standing tall for our stakeholders.”

    Airtel Uganda supports this audacious claim as it firmly establishes its position in the country’s telecom market.

    Airtel Uganda’s revenue increased by 11.4% to UGX 1,986.5 billion

    In terms of finances, revenue increased 11.4 percent to UGX 1,986.5 billion, profit after tax increased 2.7 percent to UGX 316.7 billion, and a large UGX 134.9 billion went into Uganda’s tax shelters.

    Compliance is still a pillar, regardless of the numbers. “Meeting regulatory standards isn’t just an obligation—it’s how we power economic transformation,” Sahu emphasised.

    The UGX 30.2 billion ($8.2 million) in spectrum fees paid to the Uganda Communications Commission for November 2024–2025 demonstrated that commitment and was a definite investment in Uganda’s digital future.

    UGX 244 billion capital investment 

    The business maintained capital spending at UGX 244 billion while launching 310 new network sites, 150 of which were 5G-enabled, increasing the total to 200.

    As evidence of the customer experience’s diligence, Sahu stated, “Our customer base is fully verified under the new KYC rules.”

    In an effort to provide more Ugandans with access to the internet, the company is also pressuring the government to lower taxes on smartphones and broadband gadgets.

    Read also: Airtel Uganda boosts Internet connectivity with new 4G sites in Lira

    Data usage soar to 41.7%

    The switch to 4G and 5G networks and a 27.8 percent increase in subscribers caused data usage to soar 41.7 percent in 2024.

    With the advent of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and an expanding fibre network, home broadband is taking centre stage.

    “We’re tapping fiber and 5G to grow this space and deliver value to shareholders,” Sahu said.

    Benefits for shareholders: Dividend payout of UGX 100 billion

    In relation to shareholders, they are also benefiting. In order to reach UGX 7.88 per share for the year, Airtel declared a dividend payout of UGX 100 billion, or UGX 2.5 per share. For those who were banking on Airtel’s vision, it’s a good return.

    The company has ambitious plans for 2025, including improving its Go-To-Market approach, streamlining the MyAirtel App for user convenience, and optimising the network for smooth video. 5G and more fibre will improve home Internet.

    As for Sahu’s passion for VoLTE, he stated, “This is about linking Ugandans to endless possibilities. Transforming lives is our purpose—it’s in every decision we make.”

    Karuhanga gave interested shareholders a preview of what’s to come: interactive town halls will be used to embrace Airtel’s technological edge in future engagements, and the 9.11 percent of shares that have not yet been subscribed for will go back on the market in November 2026. He declared, “We are a forward-thinking company. Watch this space.”

    The company claims that with innovation at its heart and a purpose to reduce the digital gap, Airtel is prepared to keep improving lives with one connection at a time.