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AXIAN Telecom, a leading pan-African telecommunications and digital services provider, has acquired an 8.0% minority stake in Jumia Technologies AG (NYSE: JMIA), Africa’s premier e-commerce platform. The announcement was made public on May 30, 2025, through a Schedule 13D filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
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The strategic investment marks a significant milestone for both companies. AXIAN Telecom reinforces its commitment to Africa’s fast-growing digital economy. On the other hand, Jumia gains a new long-term backer with deep roots in telecommunications, fintech, and digital infrastructure.
“AXIAN Telecom’s management is supportive of JUMIA’s strategic vision, and we look forward to contributing positively to its growth and success where we can,” said Hassan Jaber, CEO of AXIAN Telecom.
The news comes at a transformational moment for Jumia, as British investment firm Baillie Gifford fully exited its position in the company. The company has divested all of its 18 million shares after six years of investment. This exit paves the way for AXIAN’s entry. It is introducing new strategic alignment and potential synergies across fintech, logistics, and mobile services.
Jaber added:
“We believe JUMIA’s achievements in digital retail infrastructure and fintech through JumiaPay, as well as its logistics strengths, place it in a position to promote financial and economic inclusion for the communities it serves.”
A Boost to Africa’s Digital Future
According to a joint report by Google and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Africa’s digital economy is projected to contribute $712 billion to the continent’s GDP by 2050, representing 8.5% of total GDP. Investments like AXIAN’s into platforms like Jumia are critical in unlocking this value and expanding digital access, especially in underserved markets.
In its official statement, AXIAN Telecom reaffirmed its vision of building an inclusive, tech-driven Africa.
“AXIAN Telecom remains committed to supporting the development of Africa’s digital economy, including through investments in companies like JUMIA. These investments align with our mission of delivering accessible, innovative, and inclusive digital services across the continent—particularly through our flagship brands, Yas (mobile) and Mixx by Yas (fintech).”
AXIAN’s investment is widely seen as a vote of confidence in Jumia’s long-term potential—especially its logistics capabilities and e-commerce operations. Equally important is its digital payment platform, JumiaPay. With this new partnership, both companies will explore synergies in digital service delivery, financial inclusion, and cross-sector innovation.
