MTN’s proposed acquisition of IHS Towers reflects wider operator reassessment of cell-site ownership
05 March 2026 | Research and Insights
Article | PDF (3 pages) | Operator Spending| Wireless Infrastructure
"MTN’s bid for full control of IHS Towers raises compelling questions about infrastructure ownership and could presage a global reassessment of the outsourced model."
On 17 February 2026, Africa’s largest mobile operator, MTN Group, announced a deal to take full control of Africa’s largest towerco, IHS Towers. With this deal, MTN would acquire the 75% stake it does not already own.
Should the proposed transaction, which requires regulatory approval in several markets, be concluded, it will significantly recast the mobile infrastructure landscape in Sub-Saharan Africa. Whether or not the transaction succeeds, it is raising important questions beyond Africa: will there be a reversal of the past two decades’ trend for MNOs to carve out or sell off their cell sites? And does a wave of repurchases and take-private deals lie ahead?
USD549
Log in to check if this content is included in your content subscription.
Author
