Vodacom Group Ltd. is in discussions with France’s Orange SA about a strategic partnership in Africa to explore infrastructure deals to help keep down costs in Africa, people familiar with the matter said.
The telecommunications companies are reviewing agreements in overlapping markets, including Egypt and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and evaluating other opportunities to collaborate, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private.
Although private, reports suggest the talks involve potential agreements to share infrastructure and jointly build connectivity to rural areas.
In an emailed statement, a Vodacom representative said, “We are looking at partnerships with other mobile operators and financial investors in countries where we operate.”
“Our aim is to potentially alleviate the costs of rollout and rural connectivity, helping to address the cost to communicate and narrow the digital divide,” he added.
