Over the past year Airtel Africa has added more than 3,250 network sites and 3,200 kilometres of fibre, the company said, and will continue to invest in its network, new technologies and partnerships to improve service for its 183.5 million customers.
Airtel Africa’s network investments and Customer Service Week
Airtel Africa delivered the update at the start of Customer Service Week 2026, which is themed “The Extra Mile.” The company said it has also invested in retail outlets and other distribution channels alongside digital and technology initiatives.
Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar framed the theme as reflecting the company’s customer focus. “The theme of this year’s events, ‘The Extra Mile,’ is aligned with our unwavering commitment to always go the extra mile for our customers by transforming their experience, listening to them, learning from them and acting on their needs and expectations,” said Taldar. “By digitising our services and broadening access to connectivity, we are helping to unlock extraordinary opportunities for people, businesses and economies across the continent.”
AI tools, satellite connectivity and frontline engagement
The operator pointed to a recent commercial launch of direct-to-device satellite connectivity for underserved rural communities, a service that allows customers with compatible smartphones to stay connected in areas terrestrial mobile networks do not reach, provided they have a clear view of the sky.
Airtel Africa is also deploying artificial intelligence to combat fraud. Its AI-powered Spam Alert service, offered free to all subscribers, identifies and blocks suspected spam SMS messages and sends users real-time updates to help protect them from potentially fraudulent messages.
During Customer Service Week, employees will join frontline teams across the company’s 14 markets to meet customers, gather feedback and seek ways to make services more reliable. The company said these investments aim to expand coverage and capacity and to drive digital and financial inclusion across Africa.
