- Vantage Capital invested $71 million in Camusat to fund the expansion of its telecom infrastructure division, AktivCo, and refinance debt.
- Camusat aims to drive sustainable telecom growth by partnering with major mobile network operators in Africa, focusing on decarbonization and low-carbon infrastructure.
- The partnership supports Camusat’s strategic expansion in emerging markets, while Vantage Capital’s investment emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
Fund manager Vantage Capital has finalized a $71.5 million (€66 million) mezzanine investment in Camusat Holding S.A.S, a key player in the telecommunications infrastructure industry in Africa and across the world.
This investment is set to fuel the expansion of AktivCo, Camusat’s Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) division, and refinance existing debt. The deal, which is part of a larger $87.7 million (€81 million) financing package, was conducted in consortium with Eurazeo, a European-based investment firm.
Powering Africa’s telecommunications infrastructure
Camusat has established itself as a key partner for mobile network operators (MNOs), helping to accelerate the expansion of telecom infrastructure across Africa. With operations spanning across 20 countries—15 of them in Africa—Camusat is popular for its fully integrated solutions aimed at improving connectivity while championing green energy solutions for the telecom industry.
Its strategic focus on the decarbonization of mobile network operators places Camusat at the forefront of sustainable telecom infrastructure management.
Through its AktivCo division, Camusat says it has pioneered sustainable, long-term telecom infrastructure models, offering a blend of technical expertise, operational excellence, and low carbon footprint solutions.
AktivCo supports mobile network operators by financing and managing the roll-out of infrastructure in challenging regions, particularly rural areas where network coverage is still underdeveloped.
Strategic growth and green ambitions
Camusat’s innovative approach to telecom infrastructure has resonated well with investors like Vantage Capital, which is keen on supporting projects with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) components.
Camusat’s commitment to minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, coupled with its efforts to support local communities through various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, aligns with Vantage Capital’s vision of driving social and environmental impact across Africa, a joint statement explained.
According to Luc Albinski, Executive Chairman at Vantage Capital, “We are proud to partner with such a leading and dynamic group as Camusat. Their deep knowledge of the telecom industry, alongside their firm commitment to increasing connectivity in Africa, makes them a valuable partner in shaping the continent’s digital future.”
Telecom sector’s growing demand in emerging markets
As mobile network operators face increasing pressure from regulators to expand coverage in under-served areas, partnerships with service providers such as Camusat are vital. The demand for telecom infrastructure is particularly strong in emerging markets, where population growth and rising mobile penetration are driving the need for more robust networks.
Camusat’s decades long experience in designing, building, and managing telecom infrastructure has positioned it as a trusted partner for major operators in Affrica such as Orange, MTN, Vodafone, and Airtel.
In fact, the global shift toward outsourcing non-core operations by mobile network operators is particularly evident in Africa, where the rapid expansion of mobile services in rural areas has created a need for scalable and sustainable telecom infrastructure solutions.
Camusat’s model of delivering Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) helps operators focus on their core services while ensuring that critical infrastructure is deployed and managed efficiently.
A mutually beneficial partnership
The $71 million investment from Vantage Capital represents not only a vote of confidence in Camusat’s business model but also a recognition of the strategic value the company brings to the telecommunications sector.
Richard Thomas, CEO of Camusat, lauded the deal, stating, “We are very pleased to have concluded this transaction. Vantage Capital’s extensive network and expertise in Africa will be instrumental in helping us achieve our objectives as we further expand in Africa”.
Thibaut de Rodellec, Deputy CEO of Camusat, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the synergy between the two firms. “From our very first discussions, it was clear that Vantage Capital and Camusat share a common vision and set of values. This partnership will undoubtedly be a success for all stakeholders involved,” he said.
Expanding Africa’s digital future
With this latest funding round, Camusat is well-positioned to continue leading the way in the deployment of sustainable telecom infrastructure in Africa. The infusion of capital will support the company’s ambitious growth plans, which include expanding its presence in key markets and continuing to drive innovation in telecom infrastructure management.
Vantage Capital’s backing provides Camusat with the financial flexibility to accelerate its expansion while maintaining its commitment to sustainability.
As Driss Benabdeslam, Partner at Vantage Capital, stated, “By investing in Camusat, we are backing a group that is engaged in a vital and buoyant industry. We are thrilled to support the group in creating more value and generating a greater positive social impact”.
This deal marks Vantage Capital’s 39th investment across 11 African countries, further solidifying its position as a key player in financing transformative projects on the continent.
Read also: Evolving telco sector: challenges and opportunities for emerging providers
Evolution in Africa’s telecom sector
The conclusion of the $71 million deal between Vantage Capital and Camusat represents a significant milestone for both companies. As Camusat continues to expand its reach and capabilities across Africa, this partnership stands to reshape the telecom landscape, ensuring that more people across the continent can access reliable, sustainable, and affordable mobile services.
Through this collaboration, both firms are set to contribute significantly to Africa’s digital future, driving connectivity and fostering economic growth.
