MTN Wants to Take Full Control of 75% of IHS Holdings

MTN Group, one of Africa’s biggest telecom companies, has made a big move that could change how it handles its tower business. Today, MTN announced it is in advanced talks with IHS Towers to buy the remaining 75% of shares it does not already own. This would give MTN full control of the company that manages thousands of telecom towers across several continents.

IHS Towers is a major player in the world of shared communications infrastructure. It is one of the largest independent owners, operators, and developers of these towers. Right now, IHS manages more than 40,000 towers in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. These towers are key for mobile networks, helping companies like MTN provide phone and internet services to millions of people in remote and busy areas.

The news comes after recent reports about MTN’s plans for its stake in IHS. To address these reports, MTN released a cautionary statement on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. This is where MTN’s shares are traded. The statement informs shareholders and investors about the ongoing discussions. MTN wants everyone to know what is happening so they can make smart choices.

In the statement, MTN explained that the talks are at an advanced stage. The potential offer price is close to IHS’s last trading price on the New York Stock Exchange as of February 4, 2025. That price has gone up a lot recently, showing strong interest from investors in IHS. However, MTN stressed that no final agreement has been reached yet. There is no guarantee that the deal will happen. If it does go through, it could have a big impact on MTN’s share price and the value of its securities.

“Because of this, shareholders should be careful when buying or selling MTN shares,” the company warned. “Wait for a further announcement before making any moves.” This kind of cautionary statement is common in big deals like this. It protects investors from acting on rumors and helps keep the market fair.

MTN also shared what it would do if the deal does not work out. The company said it will keep looking for ways to get more value from its investment in IHS. MTN remains committed to its plan of using money wisely. This means focusing on projects that bring the best returns without wasting resources. For MTN, owning all of IHS could mean better control over its tower costs, faster network expansion, and stronger services in key markets like Nigeria, South Africa, and others.

This potential takeover highlights the growing importance of tower companies in Africa’s telecom world. Towers are expensive to build and maintain, so sharing them saves money for operators. IHS has been a partner for MTN for years, hosting its equipment on many sites. Full ownership could let MTN cut deals, invest in new tech like 5G, and compete better against rivals.

Investors are watching closely. IHS shares jumped on the news, reflecting excitement about the possible deal. For everyday users, it might mean improved mobile coverage and faster internet in the long run. But for now, everyone must wait. MTN promised to update the market soon.

As Africa’s digital economy grows, moves like this show how telecom giants are reshaping their businesses. MTN’s step toward full control of IHS could set a new path for the industry, unlocking value and driving growth across the continent.

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