“Qatar Airways Group has acquired a 25% stake in Southern Africa’s premier independent regional carrier, Airlink. The announcement is a continuation of the multi award-winning airline’s ambition to further develop its operations across the African continent,” the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

Airlink operates flights on more than 45 routes to 15 African countries, the statement read, adding that the airline’s fleet consists of over 65 aircraft.

The value of the deal, which is currently awaiting regulatory approval, has not been disclosed.