Airtel Madagascar launches new prefix to support growth

Details: Vaughan O'Grady; Category: Regulation; 23 June 2026; 243 views

African operator Airtel Madagascar has announced the introduction of the new 035 mobile prefix, suggesting that this marks a significant milestone in the operator’s expansion strategy as it continues to grow its customer base and network coverage across the country.

The company says the new prefix reflects the strong growth of its subscriber base, estimated at over five million active users. The launch is intended to support the operator’s continued expansion and its commitment to connecting more people across Madagascar.

The population of Madagascar is estimated to be approximately 33.5 million people. The other operators are leader Yas, with over 50% of the market, and Orange Madagascar (about 30%). Although placed third, Airtel is said to be enjoying substantial growth.

According to Airtel Madagascar, the introduction of the 035 prefix is more than a technical extension of the numbering plan. The company says it represents its ambition to provide broader network access and meet the increasing demand for connectivity services throughout the country.

TechAfrica News reports that new numbers beginning with 035 became available this week through Airtel Madagascar’s nationwide distribution network.

The introduction of the 035 prefix will not affect existing customers using numbers beginning with 033, which will remain fully operational without requiring any action from subscribers.

The company adds that the expansion reinforces its ambition to build a reference network capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving telecommunications market.

Through the new 035 prefix, Airtel Madagascar says it aims to strengthen its position in the country’s mobile market while expanding access to digital services and financial inclusion solutions for more communities across Madagascar.

This growth could be further good news for Airtel Africa owner Bharti Airtel, which, following shareholder approval, has formally increased its stake in Airtel Africa through a share-swap transaction with promoter group entity Indian Continent Investment Limited (ICIL).

The company's effective stake in Airtel Africa has increased from 62.73% to around 79%.