Transforming lives in action
Transforming lives of individuals, families, communities and nations through mobile technology
At Airtel Africa, we're proud to work with 1.7 million Airtel Money agents who help to power progress across 14 countries. Through our unique and growing network of retail touchpoints – now more than 390,000 customer-activating outlets – and a digitalised approach, we bring mobile technology and financial services closer to underserved communities every day.
Meet two of our agents – one in Nigeria and one in Uganda – who, on a daily basis, witness how access to mobile data and financial services can genuinely transform the lives of customers. Their stories reflect how our investments in network expansion, distribution channels and local entrepreneurship are creating tangible impact, supporting a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
Transforming lives in action
Unlocking opportunity in Nigeria
Digital inclusion through everyday connections
In Nigeria, as across all our markets, connectivity is a gateway to education, enterprise and inclusion. With the expansion of our 4G and 5G coverage and the growth of smartphone accessibility, more people than ever are using mobile data to learn, work and thrive.
One of those helping to power this transformation is Gbolahan Salaudeen, a 21-year-old Airtel agent based in Lagos. Since becoming an agent two years ago, Gbolahan has become a vital part of his community not just connecting people but helping them to unlock new possibilities. He serves a wide range of customers – traders, delivery workers, small business owners and even hotels – all relying on mobile internet for daily life. He’s seen how better connectivity has changed behaviours and opportunities.
“Before 4G and 5G, people didn’t really use the internet – 3G was slow and smartphones were expensive. Now, things are faster, easier and people are learning how to use digital tools.”
He sees how women in the community are using mobile internet to grow businesses and access new markets. One woman, who purchased a 4G device to support her hair business, now imports products and sells to customers across the city.
Gbolahan often helps customers configure their phones and learn how to use features like e-SIM or MyAirtel app. In doing so, he’s become a trusted figure in the community.
“My shop is where people come to solve real problems. From students trying to get online, to business owners running ads or tracking deliveries, I help them get connected. That’s what makes me proud”, Gbolahan says.
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Before, I was just doing my thing. Now people stop me on the street to ask for help with their internet. It’s a privilege.
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Gbolahan Salaudeen
Airtel agent, Lagos, Nigeria
Our impact in Nigeria
53.3 million
total customers
(+4.7% vs 2023/24)
29.1 million
data customers
(+6.3% vs 2023/24)
49.6%
smartphone penetration
(+4.7% vs 2023/24)
Transforming lives in action
Our impact in Uganda
10.5 million
Airtel Money customers
(+9.3% vs 2023/24)
334,000
Airtel Money agents
(+37.9% vs 2023/24)
47.6%
Airtel Money women customers
Driving financial inclusion in Uganda
Airtel Money provides safe, practical access to financial services – helping people manage money, avoid carrying cash and to run their businesses.
In Uganda, Moreen Ampeire, an Airtel Money agent in a rural trading centre, launched her business after spotting a gap in her community. She now serves farmers, traders and local businesses. One law firm she supports avoided a robbery after switching from carrying cash to using Airtel Money – Moreen deposits their funds securely each day.
“Before, when people needed items, they travelled to the city with cash. Now they come to me – I make their deposits and transfers, and their goods are delivered. It’s safer and faster”, Moreen says.
She’s trained other women to become agents and start their own businesses. Today, she operates multiple outlets and participates in savings groups allowing her to better support her children.
“I used to have nothing. Now I’ve opened two more outlets. I’ve become a businesswoman.”
Her customers use Airtel Money to pay school fees, utilities and even repay online loans.
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People used to travel miles just to send money or pay a bill. Now, they do it in seconds.
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Moreen Ampeire
Airtel Money agent, Gayaza, Uganda