Airtel Africa Plc says it reduced its diesel consumption by 9.1 million litres during the 2025/2026 financial year as part of its efforts to increase the use of cleaner energy sources and minimise the environmental impact of its operations.
Based on average diesel prices in Nigeria, the reduction is estimated to represent savings of between N12.8 billion and N13.2 billion.
The telecommunications company said the achievement was made possible through several energy-efficiency measures, including the conversion of 390 network infrastructure sites to the national electricity grid, reducing dependence on diesel-powered generators and lowering carbon emissions.
Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, disclosed the figures during a media roundtable in Lusaka, Zambia, where he presented the company’s latest sustainability report and outlined its progress toward building a more sustainable and digitally connected Africa.
According to Taldar, responsible business growth remains central to Airtel Africa’s strategy as the company continues to expand telecommunications and digital financial services across its 14 African markets.
He said the company is committed to creating long-term value by balancing business growth with environmental responsibility, digital inclusion and socio-economic development.
As part of its sustainability initiatives, Airtel Africa also reported that it successfully recycled 94 per cent of the waste generated during the financial year, supporting its efforts to promote a circular economy and improve resource efficiency.
The company disclosed that its network now reaches 81.9 per cent of the population across its operating markets, increasing access to digital services, education and economic opportunities.
Airtel Africa also recorded continued growth in its mobile financial services business, with Airtel Money now serving 54.1 million customers through a network of 2.4 million agents.
According to the company, women account for 44.1 per cent of Airtel Money users, reflecting the platform’s contribution to improving financial inclusion among underserved communities.
Through the Airtel Africa Foundation, the company invested 6.2 million dollars in programmes supporting education, financial inclusion, digital inclusion and environmental sustainability.
The foundation’s partnership with UNICEF has provided free internet access to 3,296 schools, benefiting more than two million students and nearly 39,000 teachers.
The company also reported that 64 zero-rated digital learning platforms delivered free educational content to more than 11 million learners, while over 30,000 young people received digital skills training during the year.
In addition, Airtel Africa awarded more than 250 undergraduate STEM scholarships through its Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship programme to support the development of future technology professionals across the continent.
The company said these initiatives form part of its broader strategy to reduce operational emissions while expanding digital connectivity, financial inclusion and sustainable economic development across Africa.
