Our commitment to human rights

At Airtel Africa, respect for human rights is fundamental to how we operate. Across our business, we are committed to upholding the rights, dignity and wellbeing of our employees, partners, customers and the communities we serve. From data privacy and supply chain responsibility to workplace ethics and environmental stewardship, we integrate human rights principles into every aspect of our operations. Through strong policies, rigorous compliance and continuous engagement, we strive to create an environment where fairness, inclusion and safety are not just priorities, but the foundation of our success.

Data privacy

As part of our daily operations, we process and manage customer data, and we are committed to handling this responsibly. It is our duty to ensure that all our actions remain fair, lawful and transparent.

• We fully acknowledge our responsibility in safeguarding our customers’ personal data
• We employ industry-leading security systems to maintain the highest standards of data protection
• We proactively monitor emerging cyber threats, continuously strengthening our security framework through cutting-edge technologies, staff training and automated risk management processes.

Supply chain

We collaborate with a network of over 2,600 partners and suppliers and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, reliability and ethical business practices. Ensuring that our values and vision are reflected across our supply chain is fundamental to how we operate.

• To show our commitment to upholding human rights within our supply chain, we have a human rights clause as part of the contract signed by vendors and suppliers
• Our partners are obligated to follow our commitment to human rights and employment rights
• We conduct thorough due diligence before entering into contractual relationships with our vendors and suppliers
• Alignment with our Code of Conduct – including our stance on diversity and inclusion, non-discrimination, freedom of association and collective bargaining with zero tolerance to child or forced labour – is a fundamental requirement for all our contracts.

Our people

With a workforce of over 4,250 full-time employees, we are committed to upholding and promoting human rights across all aspects of our operations. We prioritise fair treatment, inclusivity and a safe working environment.

• We adhere to the labour laws in the countries where we operate
• We prioritise safe and conducive working conditions for our people
• We oppose slavery in any form, including a zero tolerance of forced labour or child labour
• Compliance with our Code of Conduct and related annual training is mandatory for all employees. All new hires must also complete online training, including our training on human rights
• We treat our employees with care, and we respect their right to freedom of voice and association
• We’re an equal opportunity employer opposed to discrimination of any kind
• We recognise our employees’ rights to collective bargaining and freedom of association.

Health and safety

The health, safety and wellbeing of everyone we work with remains our highest priority. We are fully committed to maintaining a safe and secure working environment, ensuring that rigorous health and safety standards are upheld across all our operations.

• We seek to operate in full compliance with all legislation pertaining to health and safety
• We’ve developed and implemented policies, procedures and training to ensure the highest standards of health and safety – for both our employees and contractors
• We ensure that our business sites are equipped with tailored health and safety management systems, and we continually identify and analyse potential hazards and risks
• We prioritise both the psychological and physical wellbeing of our people.

Care for our local community and the environment

Protecting our local communities, including its residents and natural resources, is vital for Airtel Africa. We recognise the importance of people and the environment, ensuring that the natural ecosystems in which our employees and customers live are protected and preserved.

• Our activities do not infringe on the rights of people in the local communities in which we operate or negatively affect our communities
• We’ve developed a decarbonisation strategy aimed at reducing our carbon footprint and ensure we meaningfully contribute to addressing climate change
• We continually explore and implement measures to manage the impact of our waste
• We’re conscious of – and respect – the natural resources we use in our business operations and day-to-day activities.