Airtel Networks Zambia PLC has cemented its position as one of Zambia’s corporate success stories after surpassing a market capitalisation of US$1 billion on the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE), a landmark achievement celebrated through a special bell-ringing ceremony attended by government officials, regulators, investors and business leaders. The milestone places Airtel Zambia among an elite group of companies to reach the billion-dollar threshold and reinforces the telecommunications giant’s role as a key driver of Zambia’s digital transformation.

More than a financial achievement, the occasion underscored Airtel Zambia’s remarkable growth trajectory and its increasing influence on the country’s economic and technological landscape. Just two years ago, the company’s market valuation stood at approximately US$182 million. Today, it has grown more than fivefold, reflecting strong operational performance, sustained investment, expanding digital services, and growing confidence from investors. As the ceremonial bell echoed across the room, it signaled not only a corporate victory but also the emergence of Airtel Zambia as a standard-bearer for growth, innovation, and value creation in the ICT sector.

Speaking during the ceremony, Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hassam Baday described the milestone as a testament to the trust placed in the company by shareholders, customers, and stakeholders across the country.

“Our focus remains clear. We will continue investing in expanding our network, particularly in underserved areas, ensuring that more Zambians can access quality connectivity,” said Baday. “We also want to scale our digital and mobile financial services to drive greater financial inclusion while continuing to enhance customer experience at every touchpoint.”

Baday reflected on the company’s extraordinary growth journey, noting that Airtel Zambia’s share price rose from K46 and is now trading at K175 in only two years.

“This is a remarkable achievement for our shareholders, our employees, and our customers who have been part of this journey. It demonstrates the confidence investors have in our business, our strategy, and the future of Zambia’s digital economy.”

The milestone further highlights Airtel Zambia’s growing leadership in a sector that continues to shape how Zambians communicate, transact, and access opportunities. Through continued investment in network expansion, mobile financial services, and digital innovation, the company has positioned itself at the forefront of efforts to connect communities, support businesses, and accelerate financial inclusion across the country.

Speaking on behalf of LuSE Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Kabaso, Head of Legal Namunyuka Jere described the achievement as a milestone not only for Airtel Zambia but also for Zambia’s capital markets.

“This milestone is the result of market confidence expressed through the investment decisions of thousands of investors who have placed their trust and capital in Airtel Zambia … When a listed company reaches a market capitalization of US$1 billion, it sends a powerful signal that Zambia is open for business, that our markets are maturing, our regulatory environment is sound, and that real value can be created through public markets,” said Jere.

Jere added that Airtel Zambia’s achievement strengthens the case for more Zambian companies to list on the exchange, demonstrating how transparency, sound governance, and strategic execution can create substantial long-term shareholder value.

Ministry of Science and Technology Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu described the achievement as a reflection of the broader progress being made within Zambia’s digital economy and ICT ecosystem.

“This milestone is not only significant for Airtel Zambia but also for Zambia’s ICT sector, our capital markets, and the wider economy,” said Habeenzu. “It is a testament to the fact that reforms work and that Zambia is creating an environment where businesses can grow, investors can prosper, and innovation can thrive.”

Habeenzu noted that internet penetration in Zambia has risen significantly in recent years while investment in digital infrastructure continues to accelerate. He said Airtel Zambia’s achievement sends a strong signal to both local and international investors that Zambia’s technology sector is capable of creating world-class enterprises.

For many observers, Airtel Zambia’s billion-dollar milestone represents more than a valuation benchmark. It reflects the evolution of a company that has consistently invested in connectivity, innovation and customer experience while helping to shape the country’s digital future. As Zambia’s ICT sector continues to expand, Airtel Zambia is increasingly setting the pace for the industry, demonstrating how strategic investment, technological innovation and a clear long-term vision can translate into transformative growth.

The ringing of the bell may have marked the crossing of the US$1 billion threshold, but for Airtel Zambia, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter, one in which the company is not only participating in Zambia’s digital transformation but helping to lead.