6 Global Investors to invest USD 1.25 Billion in Airtel Africa through primary equity issuance
Airtel Africa intends an Initial Public Offering (IPO) on a recognized International Stock Exchange
New Delhi : Airtel Africa Ltd, a UK incorporated subsidiary of Bharti Airtel Ltd has announced that six leading global investors comprising Warburg Pincus, Temasek, Singtel, SoftBank Group International and others have agreed to invest USD 1.25 billion through a primary equity issuance in the company at a post money equity value of USD 4.4 billion. Airtel Africa has seen a turnaround of its business in recent years. This investment demonstrates the confidence of leading global investors in the company’s ongoing robust growth and profitability.
The investment also reinforces the increased growth potential of the Africa telecommunications sector. The proceeds will be used to reduce Airtel Africa’s existing debt of approx. USD 5 billion and for growth of its African operations. Airtel Africa subsequently intends an Initial Public Offering and use the proceeds primarily for further reduction of debt.
“This primary equity issuance clearly underlines the confidence of leading global investors in Airtel Africa’s successful business strategy and its potential to sustain growth and profitability. The transaction will help us further deleverage our balance sheet and boost our capacity to upgrade networks, expand coverage in different markets and achieve rapid growth of Airtel Money across our operations” Raghunath Mandava, MD and CEO, Africa, Bharti Airtel, said.