Airtel Uganda is making more money than ever, with profits jumping nearly 29% in the first half of 2025. The company earned UGX 197.2 billion after taxes, up from UGX 153.2 billion last year. This growth comes from a big boost in internet services, even though fewer people are using traditional phone calls.
Total revenue grew by 12.3% to Ushs 1.08 trillion, thanks to more customers and a huge demand for internet data. While phone call earnings dropped 2% because of new, lower connection fees set in September 2024, data services grew by over 30%. This shows people are moving away from voice calls to apps and online platforms, a trend seen worldwide.
Airtel kept its costs under control, with expenses rising only 5.5%. This helped boost their core earnings (EBITDA) by 19.3% to Ushs 567.3 billion, with profit margins improving to 52.3% from 49.2%. In simpler terms, Airtel is making more money while spending smarter.
Good news for shareholders: Airtel is paying out UGX 174 billion in dividends, or Ushs 4.35 per share, a 31.8% increase from last year. The company also invested Ushs 87.8 billion to upgrade its network, adding new sites in places like Kabale, Lira, and Tororo. Airtel already has huge percentage of 4G coverage and is now expanding 5G and high-speed internet in cities like Kampala.
Despite some debt from leasing towers, Airtel’s finances remain strong. The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) also made over UGX 50.3 billion from its Airtel shares, showing confidence in Uganda’s stock market.
In short, Airtel Uganda is thriving by focusing on internet services and smart investments, proving it can grow even with challenges like new regulations. This shift to data is the future of telecom, and Airtel is leading the way in Uganda.
