Mobile network operators across Africa are warning that rising fuel prices could increase the cost of delivering voice and internet services, putting pressure on network operations and potentially affecting connectivity for millions of users.
According to the GSMA, telecom operators on the continent are facing growing operational challenges as fuel costs continue to rise, largely driven by instability in the Middle East and its impact on global energy markets.
Many telecom companies rely on diesel generators to power mobile network towers, especially in rural and remote areas where access to reliable electricity remains limited. As fuel prices climb, the cost of maintaining these networks is also increasing.
The GSMA warned that fuel shortages and higher energy costs pose a significant risk to telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in regions where digital connectivity is already limited.
“Rising fuel costs and supply pressures are putting network operations at risk,” the organisation said. It added that disruptions to telecom networks could affect essential services, economic activity, and broader efforts to expand digital access across Africa.
Kenyan Operators Feel the Pressure
In Kenya, leading telecom providers including Safaricom and Airtel have highlighted rising fuel prices as a major operational concern.
Safaricom disclosed that it consumed 10.4 million litres of fuel during the 12 months ending March 2025 to power its network sites, up from 9.7 million litres the previous year. The increase highlights the scale of fuel dependence required to keep mobile and internet services running, particularly during power outages and in off-grid locations.
A sharp rise in diesel prices could significantly increase operating expenses for telecom companies, potentially affecting investment plans and service delivery costs.
Shift Toward Renewable Energy
To reduce their exposure to fuel price volatility, both Safaricom and Airtel have been investing in alternative energy solutions.
The companies are gradually connecting more network sites to national electricity grids while also deploying solar-powered systems to reduce reliance on diesel generators. Beyond lowering costs, these initiatives also support environmental sustainability goals.
Industry analysts say renewable energy solutions could become increasingly important as telecom operators seek to manage operating costs while expanding network coverage.
GSMA Calls for Government Support
The GSMA has urged African governments to recognise telecommunications infrastructure as a critical national asset and ensure mobile operators receive priority access to fuel supplies during periods of disruption.
The association is also encouraging policymakers to support long-term investments in renewable energy and adopt shared-responsibility approaches to protecting network infrastructure.
According to the organisation, reliable telecommunications networks are essential for modern economies, supporting digital payments, online commerce, emergency communications, education, healthcare access, and remote work.
The GSMA argued that maintaining network stability should be viewed as a national development priority rather than solely an industry concern.
As Africa’s digital economy continues to grow, the ability of telecom operators to manage rising energy costs will play an increasingly important role in determining the affordability and reliability of mobile and internet services across the continent.
