By theG&BJournal
WED MAR 25 2026-theGBJournal| Airtel Africa long-serving Chairman, Sunil Bharti Mittal on Wednesday announced his intention to retire as Chair of the Board at the conclusion of this year’s AGM in July 2026, marking a significant leadership transition for the telecom giant.
Mr. Mittal has served as Chair since listing in 2019.
”It has been an honour to lead Airtel Africa in this capacity, and I know the company will continue to prosper and to advance the transformative power of connectivity to the millions of customers we serve across 14 African countries,” Sunil Mittals said as he announced his intention to retire.
”I have offered my services and will be available to support the company as requested by the Chair.”
The move signals the end of an era defined by expansion and consolidation across key African markets.
Stepping into the role is Gopal Vittal, currently a senior executive within the broader Airtel Group, who is expected to bring continuity as well as strategic direction to the company’s next growth phase. He seats on the Board of Indus Towers as well.
His appointment reflects the company’s focus on leveraging deep industry expertise to navigate evolving market dynamics.
The transition comes at a time when Airtel Africa is intensifying its push in data services, mobile money, and financial inclusion across the continent.
With Vittal at the helm, the company is poised to build on its existing momentum, deepen market penetration, and strengthen its competitive positioning in Africa’s fast-growing telecom landscape.
Meanwhile, in respect of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors, Annika Poutiainen will also retire at the conclusion of the July AGM, at which point she will have served for over seven years.
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