Airtel Africa Plc has reported a strong financial performance for the nine months ended 31 December 2025, posting a profit after tax of $586 million, more than double the $248 million recorded in the prior year.
The telco, which operates in 14 African countries, said the sharp increase was driven by higher revenues, improved operating results and gains from foreign-exchange and derivative activities, which swung from a loss last year to a gain in the current period.
Revenue and Growth Highlights
Total revenue reached approximately $4.67 billion — up about 24.6 % in constant currency and 28.3 % in reported currency year-on-year.
EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation) grew significantly, with margins expanding to around 48.9 %.
Basic earnings per share (EPS) nearly tripled to 13.1 cents from 4.4 cents in the prior period, reflecting the company’s improved profitability.
Strong Customer Metrics
Airtel Africa’s total customer base expanded by 10 % to 179.4 million, supported by rising demand for mobile services across its markets. Notable growth was also seen in data usage and smartphone penetration, which reached approximately 48.1 %.
Data and Mobile Money Driving Revenue
Mobile data remained the largest contributor to the company’s top line, with continued adoption and increased data traffic supporting significant revenue gains. Additionally, Airtel Africa’s mobile money business saw increased usage, with subscriber numbers growing strongly and the total processed transaction value surpassing $210 billion in the latest quarter.
Strategic Investments
The company also reported an acceleration in network investment, including capex (capital expenditure) rising by over 30 % as it expanded network coverage, rolled out new sites and extended its fibre infrastructure. These investments are geared toward enhancing connectivity and customer experience across its footprint.
Management Commentary
Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, highlighted the results as evidence of the strength of the company’s strategy. He emphasised that demand for data and financial services remains robust, and that ongoing investments are positioning the business for sustained