The South African telecom group MTN Group reaches a a new strategic step towards the takeover of IHS Towers, of which he already owns around 25% of the capital. In a statement issued on 17 February, the Johannesburg-based company announced that the board of directors from IHS accepted an offer of $8.50 per share, valuing the company at 6.2 billion dollars.

For MTN CEO Ralph Mupita, the operation marks a strategic turning point. He underlines that it will strengthen the financial and operational position of the group in a context where digital infrastructures are becoming central to African growth. In particular, the acquisition would offer MTN the opportunity to buy its own tours and to consolidate its role as a partner of States in its markets of implantation.

This initiative comes two weeks after the announcement official discussions in view of the transaction. In the past, MTN had sold several tower portfolios to IHS in key markets, including Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa, South Africa, Rwanda, Rwanda, Ivory Coast and Zambia. This repositioning reflects a change in strategic direction, while the group aims to become a major player in infrastructures, solutions and digital services in Africa, with targeted investments in artificial intelligence, fiber optics and data centers.

Telecom towers are a strategic asset, a cornerstone mobile networks. Their importance is expected to grow as Africa intensifies its digital inclusion efforts. According to Union data international telecommunications, in 2025, 4G covered 75.2% of the African population, compared to 11.8% for 5G, which involves both the extension of networks to rural areas and the densification in areas already served.

The transaction is expected to be finalized by the end of 2026. However, it remains subject to several authorizations, including the withdrawal. of IHS listed on the New York Stock Exchange, shareholder approval — around 40% of voting rights having already been secured — as well as obtaining regulatory approvals in the various markets concerned.