Airtel Africa Acquires $42 million Spectrum in the DRC

Airtel Africa, a provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, has announced the purchase of 58 MHz of additional spectrum spread across 900, 1800, 2100 and 2600 MHz bands, for a gross consideration of $42m in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The licence for paired spectrum in the 2100 band comes up for renewal in September 2032. All the other licences continue until July 2036.

“This additional spectrum will support our 4G expansion in the market for both mobile data and fixed wireless home broadband capability, providing significant capacity to accommodate our continued strong data growth in the country,” Airtel Africa said.

DRC is the largest country by area in Airtel Africa’s portfolio and the second largest market by population.

“This investment reflects our continued confidence in the tremendous opportunity inherent in the DRC, supporting the local communities and economies through furthering digital inclusion and connectivity,” Airtel Africa said.

Airtel Africa has a presence in 14 countries across Africa.