Bayobab, a digital services and infrastructure subsidiary of MTN Group, has announced a new partnership with Eutelsat to boost its telecom network capabilities. The agreement, revealed on August 15, 2024, involves using Eutelsat’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation to enhance Bayobab’s network performance.

This multi-year deal aims to improve the quality and coverage of Bayobab's fixed connectivity services, especially in rural areas. The rollout is expected to be completed across the continent by December 2024, with services already available in four African countries.

Frédéric Schepens, CEO of Bayobab, highlighted the partnership's impact, saying, “This collaboration brings cutting-edge digital connectivity to even the most remote corners of the continent and reaffirms our promise of ‘connecting Africa’ – a promise rooted in partnership and driven by a vision of a digitally-inclusive future.”

The initiative is part of Bayobab's broader strategy to establish itself as a world-class, open-access digital infrastructure platform focused on Africa. Recently, Bayobab has expanded its telecom network by acquiring several fiber optic companies across the continent, investing in new fiber routes, and landing Meta’s 2Africa cable in Ghana and Nigeria.

In addition, MTN Group plans to spin off Bayobab as part of its "Ambition 2025" strategy. This move will allow Bayobab to serve not only MTN but also other clients. As of December 31, 2023, Bayobab's fiber optic network spans 114,000 kilometers across Africa.