Airtel Africa to connect 5000 schools
Analysis based on 16 articles · First reported Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 13, 2026
The initiative is likely to enhance Airtel Africa's brand reputation and customer loyalty across its markets, potentially supporting subscriber growth. However, the financial impact is modest given the philanthropic nature and the $57 million partnership already underway.
Airtel Africa, through its philanthropic arm Airtel Africa Foundation, has pledged to connect 5,000 schools across its 14 African operating countries to free internet by 2027, in partnership with UNICEF. The initiative builds on a $57 million partnership launched in 2021, which has already connected 3,296 schools, benefiting over 2 million learners and 40,000 teachers. 64 digital learning platforms have been zero-rated, enabling over 11 million users to access educational content at no cost. The School Connection programme operates in 13 countries: Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Nigeria, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar announced the commitment during a visit to St. Monica's Girls School in Lusaka, Zambia, one of over 300 schools already connected in the country. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and improve access to quality education, particularly in underserved and remote communities.
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