EIB funds Axian Telecom’s 4G, 5G expansion in Africa

The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has unveiled a US$100mn financing initiative for AXIAN Telecom to accelerate the development of mobile broadband infrastructure in Madagascar and Tanzania

The investment will bolster 4G network expansion and further the rollout of 5G technology in both countries.

This initiative, part of the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy and backed by a European Commission budgetary guarantee, is designed to improve access to high-speed internet, foster inclusive digital growth, and support sustainable development. The project also aims to narrow the digital divide in Africa and other emerging markets.

AXIAN Telecom, a major pan-African telecom provider with operations across nine Sub-Saharan African nations, currently serves over 44 million subscribers. Its most significant mobile and fixed-line networks are based in Tanzania, Madagascar, Senegal, Togo, and Comoros. Under the Yas brand, the company operates in both Tanzania and Madagascar. The EIB financing will allocate US$60mn to Tanzania and US$40 million to Madagascar.

AXIAN Telecom CEO Hassan Jaber remarked, “The US$ 100mn EIB Global financing will help us expand mobile phone infrastructure in Madagascar and Tanzania and benefit millions of people. This new large-scale network investment will pave the way for socio-economic growth, digital inclusion, and better opportunities.”

EIB vice-president Ambroise Fayolle added, “Digital connectivity opens doors for education, business, healthcare and social inclusion. This new investment demonstrates the EIB’s commitment to empowering communities, fostering sustainable development, and driving positive change through enhanced access to affordable high-speed communications.”

The project also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the creation of energy-efficient and resilient digital infrastructure. It is expected to contribute to long-term economic growth, job creation, and greater digital access for remote and underserved communities. EIB Global sees this as a way to promote e-commerce, innovation, and knowledge-sharing.

European Union officials have also expressed strong support for the initiative and its transformative potential for local economies.

Deputy head of the EU delegation to Madagascar and the Union of the Comoros, Laurent d’Ersu, said, “This commitment from the EU through the EIB further demonstrates, in difficult times, our desire to contribute to the sustainable development of Madagascar through private investments in the formal sector and thereby generate growth and open up opportunities for all. This investment will enhance mobile broadband connectivity and bring vital opportunities for economic and social growth to all corners of Madagascar. The expansion of 4G and the introduction of 5G in a context of fair competition between telecommunication operators will be key drivers of digital inclusion, supporting education, innovation, and the creation of new jobs.”

EIB Global continues to play a vital role in financing telecom and digital infrastructure projects across Africa. This latest investment is in line with the EU’s Digital4Development (D4D) initiative and the broader Global Gateway strategy, which aims to mobilise up to €150 billion by 2030 for the development of key infrastructure across Africa. Through collaboration with telecom providers, local authorities, and national governments, EIB Global aims to foster a more inclusive and connected digital future.