Airtel Africa says it reduced its diesel consumption by 9.1 million litres during its 2025/2026 financial year as part of efforts to lower operating costs and reduce carbon emissions across its network operations in Africa.

The telecommunications company attributed the decline to its continued transition away from diesel-powered generators by connecting more network sites to national electricity grids and increasing the use of cleaner energy sources across its operations in 14 African markets.

According to the company, about 390 telecom sites were migrated from diesel-powered systems to grid electricity during the year, a move expected to improve network efficiency while cutting fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions.

The initiative comes as telecom operators across Africa face rising energy costs, driven largely by unreliable electricity supplies that have forced many companies to depend heavily on diesel generators to keep network infrastructure running.

Beyond its energy transition, Airtel Africa said it recycled 94 per cent of the waste generated during the reporting period, underscoring its broader sustainability strategy.

The company also highlighted progress in expanding digital access across its markets. Its network now covers nearly 82 per cent of the population in the 14 countries where it operates, while its mobile money platform serves more than 54 million customers through approximately 2.4 million agents.

Airtel Africa added that it continued investing in education and digital inclusion through its foundation, supporting internet connectivity for schools, digital learning initiatives and technology skills training for young people across the continent.