RMB has partnered with Paradigm Tower Ventures (PTV) to support its first investment in Rwanda through its acquisition of IHS Rwanda Limited (rebranded as Ishara Towers Rwanda Limited after the acquisition). The transaction marks an important step in PTV’s pan-African growth strategy and strengthens Rwanda’s digital infrastructure sector, accelerating connectivity across East Africa.
This partnership reflects RMB’s commitment to enabling digital inclusion and supporting the growth of independent tower infrastructure across the continent.
The challenge
PTV sought to acquire IHS Rwanda as the anchor asset for its sub-Saharan Africa telecom towers platform in a rapidly evolving market. The transaction required navigating a new market, building strong local banking relationships, and structuring a facility that balanced regulatory, commercial and market requirements.
The deal required designing a funding package that met the objectives of the buyer, seller and lender. Additionally, it needed to be executed within tight timelines to ensure certainty for all stakeholders.
RMB’s solution
RMB acted as financial adviser, sole mandated lead arranger, funder and structurer, working closely with PTV and its equity partners to design an innovative financing solution tailored to the Rwandan market. RMB structured and funded a seven-year acquisition facility, a first for the sector in Rwanda.
As part of the wider transaction, RMB was appointed joint mandated lead arranger alongside Bank of Kigali for the local currency tranche, which is expected to become the largest corporate syndication in the Rwandan market.
Results and benefits
The transaction enables PTV to establish a meaningful presence in East Africa and supports the expansion of critical telecommunications infrastructure in Rwanda. It also reinforces investor confidence in regional funding support for independent tower operators – a key driver of connectivity and digital inclusion across the continent.
This milestone transaction demonstrates RMB’s ability to deliver innovative, cross-border solutions that combine advisory expertise, structuring capability and funding strength in emerging markets.
Deal summary
| Client | Paradigm Tower Ventures |
|---|---|
| Deal value | Undisclosed |
| Sector | Digital infrastructure |
| Capabilities | Financial advisory, loan capital markets, funding and structuring |
| RMB's role | Financial adviser, sole mandated lead arranger, funder and structurer |
| Country | Rwanda |
