…Sets goals across 14 African markets
Airtel Africa Foundation has unveiled a plan to empower Nigerian communities through education and digital inclusion, with a focus on training 26,000 youths and connecting 300 additional schools to the internet, alongside robust initiatives across 13 other African markets, by Full Year 2026.
The announcement came during a press conference organised by Airtel Africa and Airtel Africa Foundation, in Lagos, on Tuesday.
Dinesh Balsingh, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, opened the event, framing the Foundation as a new chapter for Airtel’s social impact.
“For over a decade, Airtel has connected millions of Africans to voice and data. The Airtel Africa Foundation brings our work in education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and digital skills under a single, sharper platform with greater ambition,” Balsingh said.
He emphasized that Nigeria, Airtel’s largest market, will be a cornerstone of the Foundation’s efforts, with plans to train 26,000 youths, award 100 local scholarships, connect 300 schools, and adopt 10 schools for long-term support, including facility renovations and smart classrooms.
Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, highlighted the Foundation’s broader mission across 14 African markets. “Our purpose goes beyond connecting people. We aim to be a genuine partner in Africa’s progress,” Taldar said.
The Foundation, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has already connected 1,200 schools, providing digital learning resources to over one million students and training 17,000 teachers.
In Nigeria, specific initiatives include zero-rating learning platforms, building IT labs, and fostering tech hubs to empower communities. Other countries are also seeing tailored programs.
In Uganda, the Foundation plans to train 50,000 youths, connect 415 schools, adopt 10 schools, and train 100 women in tech.
In Kenya, 5,000 youths will receive training, 50 digital communities will be established, 100 women will be trained in tech, 100 schools will be connected, and 10 schools will be adopted.
In Tanzania, Airtel Foundation aims to connect 1,000 schools, while in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), 25 schools will be adopted, and 50 local scholarships will be awarded. Additional programs are active in Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, Seychelles, Niger, Chad, and other markets, focusing on school connectivity, teacher training, and youth empowerment.
Segun Ogunsanya, chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, emphasized the long-term vision. “The real question is: what legacy will we leave? Legacy is measured by the lives we touch and the opportunities we create,” he said.
The Foundation aims to impact 10 million lives by 2030, with education as the cornerstone for unlocking digital and financial inclusion. “We are proud of our people’s role, our colleagues volunteer time, share expertise, and mentor students. Giving is not just writing a cheque; it is giving time and presence,” Ogunsanya added, stressing accountability through measurable outcomes.
With partnerships spanning governments, UNICEF, and local organizations, the Airtel Africa Foundation is poised to drive lasting change across Nigeria and 13 other African markets, fostering resilient, inclusive communities through education and digital empowerment.
