Bridging the digital and energy divide in Africa with Netis

Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing rapid demographic and economic growth but still faces a major deficit in telecommunications and energy infrastructure. Less than 50% of the population currently has access to electricity, and barely 38% has an internet connection, compared to a global average of 68%. This energy and digital divide hinders access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

It is in this context that Amethis has brought together a consortium of leading investors—Africinvest, Proparco, and IFC—to take a majority stake in Netis, a recognized pan-African player specializing in the deployment and maintenance of telecommunications and energy infrastructure. This partnership aims to accelerate the continent’s digital and energy inclusion by supporting a sustainable and locally based model.

Netis operates in more than 15 countries in sub-Saharan Africa and plays a key role in connecting populations and supporting economic growth. Specifically, the company supports its clients, telecom and energy operators, in:

• The management and maintenance of telecommunications sites,

• The deployment of fiber optics,

• The power supply for networks, with growing expertise in alternatives to diesel generators.

At the same time, Netis pursues an active policy of recruiting and training local technicians, with a clear commitment to opening up more positions to women in technical professions.

The entry of Amethis and its strategic partners into Netis’ capital strengthens its capacity to:

• Deploy an expanded offering to telecom and energy operators,

• Support the energy transition of networks by gradually reducing dependence on diesel generators,

• Anticipate upcoming technological developments, particularly the deployment of 5G,

• Accelerate the creation of skilled local jobs through training and upskilling African technicians.

Through this partnership, Amethis is actively contributing to bridging the digital divide in sub-Saharan Africa, while promoting economic inclusion and reducing inequalities.