Bayobab Company Profile

Background

Bayobab, formerly known as MTN GlobalConnect, is a subsidiary of MTN Group, Africa's largest telecommunications carrier. Rebranded in May 2023, Bayobab operates as an open-access digital infrastructure platform, focusing on expanding and enhancing Africa's digital connectivity. The company's mission is to bridge the digital divide across the continent by providing robust and extensive digital networks that cater to service providers, mobile networks, telecommunications companies, and major technology firms.

Key Strategic Focus

Bayobab's strategic objectives include:

Infrastructure Expansion: Developing a pan-African terrestrial fiber optic cable network to improve broadband access, particularly for landlocked countries.

Open-Access Network: Transitioning MTN Group's fiber assets into an open-access network to attract partners and comply with local regulations.

Technological Innovation: Becoming the first Telecom WhatsApp Business Solution Provider in Africa, offering businesses a range of services related to the use of WhatsApp Business Platform.

Market Expansion: Securing operating licenses in key markets such as Uganda, Côte d'Ivoire, and the Central African Republic to enhance service delivery and regional connectivity.

Financials and Funding

In 2023, Bayobab reported an 8.1% year-on-year growth in external revenue, reaching $372.3 million. The Communication Platforms segment saw a 9.2% increase, driven by strategic Application-to-Person SMS partnerships. The Fiber segment maintained stable performance, supported by new fixed connectivity infrastructure deals valued at $24.4 million.

Pipeline Development

Bayobab is actively involved in several key projects:

Project East2West: In partnership with Africa50, this initiative aims to develop a terrestrial fiber optic cable network connecting ten African countries, with an investment of up to $320 million between 2023 and 2025.

2Africa Subsea Cable: Bayobab successfully landed the 2Africa subsea cable in Ghana in November 2023 and in Nigeria in February 2024, enhancing international connectivity.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Bayobab's technological advancements include:

Proprietary Fiber Network: As of December 2023, Bayobab's proprietary fiber network spans approximately 114,000 km, with plans to expand to 135,000 km by 2025.

Communication Platforms: The company has launched over 6,800 roaming services, enhancing international roaming affordability for MTN subscribers across Africa.

Leadership Team

Frédéric Schepens: CEO of Bayobab, leading the company's strategic initiatives and expansion efforts.

Josephine Sarouk: Managing Director of Bayobab Nigeria, overseeing operations and growth within the Nigerian market.

Leadership Changes

In January 2025, Mazen Mroué was announced as the new CEO of MTN Digital Infrastructure, indicating a strategic focus on digital transformation within the MTN Group.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The African digital infrastructure market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for broadband services, mobile connectivity, and digital transformation initiatives. The expansion of fiber networks and subsea cables is crucial to meeting this demand and bridging the digital divide.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the African digital infrastructure space include:

Liquid Intelligent Technologies: A pan-African technology group offering extensive fiber networks and data center services.

Seacom: Provides high-capacity international fiber-optic bandwidth, serving various African countries.

MainOne: A leading provider of innovative telecom services and network solutions for businesses in West Africa.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Bayobab has engaged in significant partnerships to strengthen its market position:

Africa50 Partnership: Collaborating on Project East2West to develop a pan-African terrestrial fiber optic cable network.

WhatsApp Business Solution Provider: Becoming the first Telecom WhatsApp Business Solution Provider in Africa, offering businesses enhanced communication services.

Operational Insights

Bayobab's strategic considerations include:

Market Positioning: Establishing itself as a leading open-access digital infrastructure provider in Africa.

Competitive Advantages: Leveraging its extensive fiber network, strategic partnerships, and innovative service offerings to differentiate itself from competitors.