Airtel Africa Plc has announced the planned retirement of Akhil Gupta from its Board of Directors, effective at the conclusion of the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for July 2025.
Gupta, who has served as a non-executive director, played a key role in shaping Airtel Africa’s strategic direction from its early expansion into the continent in 2010 to its successful listing on the London Stock Exchange in 2019.
The company, which provides telecommunications and mobile money services across 14 African countries, disclosed the development in a statement released on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal thanked Gupta for his longstanding service and strategic counsel over the years.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to express my gratitude to Akhil for his dedicated service and invaluable contributions to the Airtel Africa story, from its acquisition in 2010, through to its listing in 2019 and to where we are today. His commitment has been instrumental in guiding us through numerous challenges and achievements,” Mittal said.
Airtel Africa noted that there are no regulatory matters requiring disclosure under the UK Listing Rules 6.4.6 regarding Gupta’s retirement.
With this change, the Board will begin its succession planning to ensure continuity in leadership and governance.
Gupta’s exit marks a significant transition for the company, as he has been a long-time strategic advisor during a period marked by rapid growth, regulatory navigation and financial milestones across Africa’s telecom and fintech sectors.
Airtel Africa continues to expand its footprint and service offerings across the continent, particularly in digital payments and mobile financial services, with over 150 million customers and growing mobile money adoption across its operating markets.
