Axian Telecom and Huawei sign MoU to accelerate network modernisation in Africa

Details: Manny Pham; Category: Operators; 17 February 2026; 7843 views

Axian Telecom has signed a memorandum of understanding with Huawei to establish a framework for network modernisation and the rollout of new digital services across its footprint in Africa and the Indian Ocean.

The agreement, signed in Shanghai last week, focuses on three pillars: digital connectivity, digital finance and digital operations. The partnership will centre on deploying technologies including 5G, cloud and AI to support consumer, enterprise and public sector services.

Axian operates in five African markets – Tanzania, Madagascar, Comoros, Senegal and Togo – as well as in the French territory of La Réunion and Mayotte. Its telecoms businesses trade under the Yas brand in Africa. The group has been steadily expanding its regional presence, including through acquisitions of operating units from Millicom as the latter pivots its strategy towards Latin America.

Axian CEO Hassan Jaber (pictured, first) said the partnership underlines the group’s long-term commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure across Africa, while building local capabilities and supporting sustainable growth.

Gary Lu (pictured, fourth), President of Huawei’s Southern Africa Region Carrier Business, said the collaboration would bring advanced technologies to local markets