Airtel Africa Plans IPO for Airtel Money Division in 2026
Airtel Africa has announced its intention to list its mobile money division, Airtel Money, in the first half of 2026. The move comes as the company aims to capitalize on the growing demand for digital payment services across the African continent.
The decision to list Airtel Money follows a surge in investor interest in Africa’s fintech sector, particularly in mobile payment platforms that provide access to transactions, credit, and remittances for millions of unbanked individuals. Airtel Africa, which is currently listed in London and operates in 14 African countries, believes that the IPO will provide Airtel Money with the independence and visibility needed to expand its operations.
The planned IPO is part of Airtel Money’s strategy to compete with established players in the digital payments market, such as Safaricom’s M-Pesa and MTN’s MoMo. By gaining autonomy and raising capital through the IPO, Airtel Money aims to challenge industry leaders who benefit from large user bases and strong market penetration.
While the company did not disclose the exchange or fundraising target for the IPO, it reaffirmed its commitment to going public, a plan first announced in 2024 when it began exploring the possibility of spinning off the rapidly growing unit. The initial target for the IPO was set for July 2025.
Airtel Money has emerged as a key revenue driver for the group, with revenues from the service increasing by 20.7% in 2024. The platform processed $112 billion in transaction value last year, driven by increased adoption in key markets.
Airtel is optimistic that a standalone listing will facilitate Airtel Money’s expansion in markets like Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where mobile money usage is growing but still has room for growth. With over 30 million active users across 14 markets and partnerships with banks, Airtel Money aims to compete with regional rivals like Safaricom and South Africa’s mobile money platforms.
Despite its rapid growth, Airtel Money still faces stiff competition. Safaricom’s M-Pesa remains dominant in Kenya and Tanzania, processing over $300 billion annually and serving as the preferred mobile transaction platform for many households and businesses. MTN’s MoMo has a strong presence across West and Central Africa, boasting 65 million active users.
The IPO announcement signals Airtel Africa’s commitment to driving the growth of Airtel Money and establishing its presence in the competitive digital payments market. With the IPO set for the first half of 2026, Airtel Money is poised to expand its reach and solidify its position as a key player in Africa’s fintech landscape.
