Field notes: Helios Towers Pan-African Telecom Infrastructure

Helios Towers is one of Africa's largest independent telecommunications tower companies, operating over 14,000 tower sites across 9 markets in Africa and the Middle East. Founded in 2010 and listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2019, the company builds, acquires, and operates passive telecommunications infrastructure — towers, power systems, and shelters — that mobile network operators (MNOs) lease to deploy their radio equipment. By sharing towers among multiple operators, Helios Towers reduces the cost of network rollout and enables faster expansion of mobile connectivity across underserved areas. The company is a critical enabler of Africa's mobile revolution.

Africa's leading independent tower company — connecting millions through shared infrastructure.

What the project is trying to do

1. 1Operate and expand a portfolio of over 14,000 telecommunications tower sites across Africa
2. 2Enable mobile network operators to expand coverage efficiently through shared infrastructure
3. 3Increase tenancy ratios by hosting multiple operators on each tower to maximise asset utilisation
4. 4Reduce carbon emissions by transitioning tower power systems from diesel to solar and hybrid solutions
5. 5Bridge the digital divide by extending telecom infrastructure into rural and underserved communities
6. 6Deliver attractive returns to investors while supporting Africa's digital transformation

What it means for people nearby

Helios Towers directly enables mobile connectivity for hundreds of millions of Africans by providing the infrastructure that mobile operators need to extend their networks. The shared tower model reduces the cost of network deployment by an estimated 30-50% compared to each operator building its own towers. The company employs over 2,000 people across its markets and supports Africa's digital economy growth. By transitioning from diesel to solar-hybrid power, Helios is eliminating thousands of tonnes of CO2 emissions annually from Africa's telecom infrastructure.

Where it stands

2025: 14,000+ Towers and Green Energy Push. Portfolio exceeds 14,000 towers. Helios accelerates its green energy programme, targeting 70% hybrid or solar-powered sites to reduce diesel dependency. Current status: Ongoing.