Airtel Gabon and Moov Africa-Gabon Télécom, two of the country’s largest telecom operators, have taken a significant step forward by signing a memorandum of understanding to share network infrastructure. The agreement, announced by Gabon’s Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalisation and Innovation, marks a major milestone in the nation’s journey to strengthen its digital ecosystem and expand connectivity.
The collaboration is designed to enhance service delivery across Gabon by improving network coverage while at the same time reducing deployment costs and optimising investments. By pooling resources, the two operators aim to make digital services more affordable and accessible, a key enabler for growth in both urban and rural areas where infrastructure development has traditionally been a challenge.
This strategic partnership comes at a time when Gabon’s digital penetration is rapidly growing. Research from Datareportal indicates that, as of early 2025, the country had 3.2 million mobile subscribers and 1.84 million internet users, representing an impressive penetration rate of 71.9% of the population. With such figures, the need for reliable and widespread infrastructure has never been more crucial to support the increasing demand for digital connectivity.
Government support has also been clear and consistent. Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, Digitisation and Innovation, commended the initiative, underscoring the dedication of both operators in ensuring its success. The ministry further highlighted how this collaboration aligns with the broader vision of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to strengthen the nation’s digital economy and enhance Gabon’s global competitiveness.
Executives from both telecoms echoed this commitment. Zouheir Jorio, CEO of Moov Africa-Gabon Télécom, emphasized that the initiative seeks to improve network availability while also addressing environmental and urban concerns by limiting the unchecked proliferation of pylons that affect the visual landscape. Meanwhile, Airtel Gabon CEO Tom Gutjahr stressed that although competition remains in the market, some realities call for collaboration, particularly when it comes to making digital services more affordable and accessible to the population.
This infrastructure-sharing agreement signals a new era of cooperation in Gabon’s telecommunications sector. By prioritizing customer needs, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability, Airtel and Moov Africa-Gabon Télécom are setting a strong example for how industry collaboration can accelerate digital transformation. Their joint efforts will not only improve connectivity but also empower individuals, businesses, and the broader economy to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
