Airtel Africa Powers Greener Future, Cuts Diesel Use By 9.1 Million Litres Through Major Energy Shift

Airtel Africa has recorded a major sustainability milestone, cutting diesel consumption by approximately 9.1 million litres while converting more than 950 network sites from off-grid power sources to grid electricity as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions and build a greener telecommunications business across the continent.

The achievement, unveiled in the company’s Sustainability Report 2026, represents a significant increase from the 500 sites converted in the previous year and underscores Airtel Africa’s growing commitment to environmentally responsible operations.

According to the report, the transition helped the telecommunications giant reduce both operational costs and the environmental impact of powering its vast network infrastructure across 14 African markets.

Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar, described sustainability as a core element of the company’s long-term growth strategy, noting that the organisation remains focused on expanding digital connectivity while reducing its carbon footprint.

The latest milestone forms part of Airtel Africa’s broader ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The company has also set an interim target to reduce the intensity of its Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 62 per cent by 2032, aligning its operations with global climate action goals.

Beyond environmental gains, the report highlights strong progress in digital inclusion across the continent. Airtel Africa’s network coverage now reaches 81.9 per cent of the population within its operating markets, while rural coverage has grown to 73.1 per cent. Smartphone penetration among its customers also increased to 49.5 per cent, reflecting rising access to digital services.

The company’s mobile money business continues to play a pivotal role in expanding financial inclusion. Airtel Money now serves more than 54 million customers and processed approximately $196 billion in transaction value during the reporting period, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s leading digital financial service platforms.

Airtel Africa also reported that 94 per cent of waste generated across its operations was recycled during the year. In addition, its partnership with UNICEF has helped connect more than 3,000 schools to the internet, providing millions of young people with access to digital learning opportunities.

As governments, businesses and communities increasingly prioritise sustainable development, Airtel Africa’s latest achievements demonstrate how technological expansion and environmental responsibility can work hand in hand. By reducing reliance on diesel-powered infrastructure while extending connectivity and financial access, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s transition to a more sustainable digital future.