Airtel Africa (AAF) Shatters 200p Barrier, Reaching New 52-Week High

Airtel Africa (LON: AAF) shares have surged past the 200p mark, establishing a new 52-week high and demonstrating continued upward momentum.

The stock closed at 205.60p on August 1, 2025, rising around 0.7%. Intraday trading saw the price climb even higher to 207p per share. Meanwhile, as of 11 am on Monday, the stock is up a further 1.65% at 209p, continuing the upward momentum.

The milestone reflects sustained investor confidence and positive market sentiment surrounding the telecommunications giant's performance.

AAF shares opened at 203.40p on August 1st, with a robust trading volume, indicating strong market participation.

The recent surge builds upon a consistent upward trend observed this year, culminating in the breach of the psychologically significant 200p level.

Airtel Africa's current market capitalization stands at approximately £7.62 billion, with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 29.24.

Technical indicators further support the bullish sentiment. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is approaching overbought territory, signaling strong buying pressure.

Moreover, the stock's price action has consistently remained above key short-term moving averages, reinforcing the ongoing uptrend.

Fundamental Drivers of Growth

Several factors have contributed to this positive performance. Notably, Airtel Africa reported exceptional financial results for the first quarter of 2025, achieving a profit after tax of $156 million, representing a significant improvement over the previous year.

Revenue increased by 24.9% to $1.415 billion, primarily driven by tariff adjustments and robust performance in Francophone Africa.

Adding to the positive outlook is Airtel Africa's strategic share buyback program. The initiative demonstrates the Board's confidence in the company's future growth prospects and financial stability.

Since the commencement of the second tranche of its share buyback for $55 million, the company has returned $16.9 million to shareholders, following the purchase of 7.1 million ordinary shares as of June 30, 2025.

Analyst Summary: Bull and Bear Cases