MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile operator, has agreed to acquire a majority stake in IHS Towers for $6.2 billion, marking one of the continent’s biggest telecommunications deals and a significant shift in infrastructure ownership.
The transaction, struck with the global tower operator IHS Towers, will see MTN increase its shareholding in the company to about 60 per cent, with the South African-listed firm taking operational control of expanding network infrastructure across Africa, the Middle East and South America.
In a statement, MTN said the purchase “creates long-term value for shareholders and positions MTN Group as one of the largest integrated telecommunication infrastructure owners and operators globally.”
The deal — subject to customary regulatory approvals — is expected to close later this year and will be funded through a mix of equity and debt, although MTN did not immediately disclose the full financing structure.
Chief Executive Rob Shuter described the agreement as “transformational,” adding: “This acquisition enhances our strategic position in critical infrastructure that underpins digital economies across our markets.”
IHS Towers, founded in 2001 and publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange, operates more than 60,000 towers in emerging markets, leasing space to multiple mobile network operators and playing a crucial role in expanding connectivity.
Market analysts say the acquisition reflects broader industry trends as telecom operators invest heavily in infrastructure to support the rising demand for data and next-generation technologies like 5G. “Owning tower assets allows MTN to strengthen service quality and capture infrastructure revenue that previously went to third-party owners,” said telecom analyst Mr. Femi Adeyemi.
The acquisition also comes amid increasing competition in key markets, where infrastructure readiness has become a battleground for subscriber growth and revenue diversification.
MTN’s share price rose modestly on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange following the announcement, signalling investor confidence in the long-term benefits of the deal.
