Airtel Africa Foundation Targets 10 Million Lives by 2030

The Airtel Africa Foundation, in partnership with UNICEF, has unveiled an ambitious plan to positively impact more than 10 million Africans by 2030 through education, digital inclusion, financial literacy, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

The announcement came on Tuesday during the official launch of the foundation at a press conference in Lagos, Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, described the initiative as a continuation of Airtel’s tradition of social investment, now scaled to deliver broader impact. “We are equipping schools with devices, internet access, and teacher training to prepare young Africans for self-reliance in the digital economy,” he said.

Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, said the foundation had already visited over 1,200 schools, impacted more than one million students, and trained 17,000 teachers across its 14 markets. “A large portion of the foundation’s investment will go into Nigeria,” he added.

Foundation Chairman Dr. Segun Ogunsanya emphasised its role as a “catalyst for change,” noting investments in zero-rated learning platforms, classroom refurbishments, and device donations. He also announced the Airtel Africa Fellowship, which will provide scholarships, mentorship, and exchange opportunities in technology and STEM disciplines.

Since its inception in July 2024, the foundation has rolled out projects across Nigeria and 13 other African countries. In Nigeria alone, it has refurbished six schools, donated digital learning tools, and awarded scholarships — with plans to expand support to 10 schools for geo-balanced impact.

Ogunsanya further revealed that Airtel is sponsoring two Nigerian students at a university in India, while 100 new scholarships will soon be awarded locally. More than 1,100 Airtel employees are also volunteering their expertise in mentorship and community development projects across Africa.

“What makes you rich is not what you have, but what you give,” Ogunsanya remarked.