Already present in 13 African countries and Panama, AMN hopes to launch further operations in the Central African Republic, Kenya, Madagascar, Niger, South Africa and Uganda. Starlink, meanwhile, announced on 19 July that it was now, but, subject to obtaining licences, its geographical footprint in Africa is currently limited to three other countries on the continent: Nigeria, Mozambique and Rwanda.
Founded in 2013, AMN targets more than 5,000 functioning towers by the end of 2023. The company has simplified its business model, integrating the costs of building, managing and maintaining tower networks in return for a flat fee. It has maintained profitability thanks to cheaper logistics and smaller towers, which are more economical and quicker to install. AMN has raised more than $100m from around 20 investors since it was founded.