The Airtel Africa Foundation, in partnership with UNICEF, has unveiled a sweeping initiative aimed at transforming over 10 million lives across Africa by 2030 through education, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability, and financial literacy.
The foundation was formally launched on Tuesday at a press conference in Lagos State.
In his address, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, stressed the organisation’s dedication to empowering communities. “We gather today to officially present the Airtel Africa Foundation to the world. This foundation carries forward our tradition of social investment and multiplies its reach with a sharper focus, a stronger platform, and a groundbreaking vision,” he said.
He added, “For the first time, the world will see in one frame the projects we are delivering across the continent. These initiatives are already catching light in classrooms, in hospitals, in rural communities, and in cities, where digital access determines the difference between stagnation and opportunity.”
Balsingh explained that the foundation is equipping schools with internet connectivity, devices, and teacher training to prepare young Africans for the digital economy.
Also speaking at the event, Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar described the mission as both purposeful and strategic. “We have visited over 1,200 schools, impacted more than one million students, and trained 17,000 teachers in digital education across our 14 markets. A very large portion of the foundation’s investment will go into Nigeria,” he stated.
Since its inception in July 2024, the Airtel Africa Foundation has operated in Nigeria and 13 other African countries, bridging the digital divide, promoting economic resilience, and equipping young people with 21st-century skills
Chairman of the Foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, said the initiative would serve as both a catalyst and a legacy. “What makes you rich is not what you have, but what you give,” he noted.
Highlighting its achievements, Ogunsanya said, “We’ve given IT materials to teachers, installed smart TVs in classrooms, and reconstructed six schools across Nigeria — one in each region. Our target is to reach 10 schools for a geo-balanced impact.”
He further revealed the introduction of the Airtel Africa Fellowship, designed to support young innovators through scholarships, mentorship, internships, and exchange programmes. “Beyond building schools, we are supporting students who cannot afford school fees through scholarships, and we are working towards building a major tech hub in Nigeria. Currently, we are sponsoring two Nigerian students in a university in India, and I am pleased to announce that 100 additional scholarships will be awarded to Nigerians,” he said.
Ogunsanya also praised Airtel employees for their role in driving the mission. According to him, “More than 1,100 staff are volunteering their expertise for mentorship, coaching, and community projects across Africa.
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