Swiftnet: Actis Consortium Acquires South African Tower Platform
Deal News | Mar 28, 2025 | Actis LLP
A consortium headed by Actis, a prominent global investor in sustainable infrastructure, has completed its acquisition of a 100% stake in Swiftnet, a telecom tower portfolio in South Africa, valued at approximately $370 million from Telkom. The acquisition sees Actis collaborating with international and local investors, including the Mineworkers Investment Company and Royal Bafokeng Holdings. This strategic move not only consolidates Actis' presence in the South African digital infrastructure sector but also aligns with the Mineworkers Investment Company's goal to diversify its investment portfolio by focusing on sectors with robust structural growth potential. Swiftnet, with over 4,000 telecom tower sites across South Africa, aims to drive the transition from 3G and 4G technologies to 5G, enhancing internet access and expanding rural coverage. The consortium's investment effort underscores a sustained commitment to reinforcing South Africa's digital infrastructure, while also building on Actis' previous success with investments like Octotel.
Sectors
- Telecommunications
- Private Equity
- Digital Infrastructure
Geography
- South Africa – Swiftnet and the primary focus of the investment are based in South Africa, highlighting the significance of the region's infrastructure development.
- Luxembourg – The headquarters of Actis LLP, the leading firm in the transaction, adds geographical relevance to Luxembourg.
Industry
- Telecommunications – The telecommunications sector is relevant due to Swiftnet's extensive telecom tower portfolio in South Africa and its contribution to the transition to 5G technology.
- Private Equity – This industry is relevant as the article discusses the acquisition led by Actis, a private equity firm.
- Digital Infrastructure – The sector is pertinent given the emphasis on expanding digital infrastructure within South Africa, particularly concerning telecom towers and network expansion.
Financials
- US$370 million (ZAR6.75 billion) – The enterprise value of Swiftnet upon acquisition by the consortium.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actis LLP | Leading Investor in the Consortium | Company | A global investor known for focusing on sustainable infrastructure projects. |
| Swiftnet | Target Company | Company | A leading telecom tower operator in South Africa with over 4,000 sites. |
| Telkom | Selling Company | Company | The previous owner of Swiftnet, involved in telecommunications. |
| Mineworkers Investment Company (MIC) | Investor in Consortium | Company | A 100% black-owned South African investment company. |
| Royal Bafokeng Holdings | Shareholder | Company | Holds a 30% stake in Swiftnet post-acquisition. |