The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has announced its first investment in Senegal, providing up to €270 million in long-term financing to support telecommunications company Yas in expanding digital infrastructure and improving connectivity across Africa.
The landmark investment represents the EBRD’s first local-currency financing and first A/B loan transaction in sub-Saharan Africa. The financing will support Yas’ digital infrastructure expansion in Senegal and Kenya, helping strengthen competition, improve service quality, and increase access to reliable digital services.
In Senegal, the investment will help modernize Yas Senegal’s mobile networks, including the expansion of 4G and 5G services, strengthen core telecommunications infrastructure, and accelerate fibre network development. In Kenya, the funding will support the expansion and modernization of fibre infrastructure following Yas’ acquisition of Wananchi in 2025.
The project aims to advance inclusive digital growth by improving broadband availability and supporting affordable connectivity for communities and businesses. It also includes commitments from Yas to increase female representation within its workforce and management teams while promoting women’s participation in the digital economy through targeted skills development programmes.
EBRD’s partnership with Yas reflects the growing importance of digital infrastructure in driving economic development, financial inclusion, and job creation across Africa. By combining long-term financing with institutional investment, the initiative is expected to strengthen digital markets and support sustainable innovation in the region.
Yas, owned by AXIAN Telecom, operates across 11 markets in Africa and the Indian Ocean region, providing mobile networks, fintech services, and digital infrastructure solutions. The investment marks a significant step in EBRD’s efforts to support private sector growth, infrastructure development, and resilient economies in its expanding African operations.
