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Africa Airtel PLC on Thursday reported strong revenue growth in the second quarter of 2025, during which the firm inked a deal to distribute Starlink internet services. The London-based company provides telecommunications services in 14 countries in Africa and is the continent’s second largest telecom operator. It said pretax profit more than tripled in the three months that ended June 30, climbing to $273 million from $74 million the year prior. Revenue was around 22% higher at $1.42 billion, compared to $1.16 billion in 2024, led by the Data and Voice divisions, which contributed $549 million and $533 million, respectively. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation totalled $679 million, 30% ahead of $523 million a year before, for an Ebitda margin of 48.0% compared to 45.3%. Basic earnings per share for the second-quarter were 3.4 US cents, up from 0.2 cents. Net debt was $5.45 billion at June 30 versus $3.73 billion on-year, increasing leverage to 2.2x from 1.6x. In Nigeria, Africa Airtel said it is progressing the migration of customer data to a new platform, as directed by the Nigerian Communications Commission. The firm said that a new customer onboarding process had begun, as of Wednesday. Back in May, Africa Airtel signed onto a partnership with Starbase, Texas-based technology firm SpaceX, developer of Starlink satellites, to distribute internet services in Africa. SpaceX has secured licences in nine of the 14 countries where Africa Airtel operates with the remainder in progress. The firm also noted the retirement of Jaideep Paul as chief executive during the second quarter. Kamal Dua has taken over the role, as of July 9. Airtel Africa shares were 5.7% higher at 193.70 pence midday Thursday in London. They were the fourth best performers in the FTSE 100 index. Copyright 2025 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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