Ethio Telecom has entered into a significant partnership with Ericsson to expand and modernise its network during the Mobile World Congress 2026, a crucial development in advancing Ethiopia’s digital infrastructure.
This initiative is part of Ethio Telecom’s three-year Next Horizon Strategy, which focuses on expanding, upgrading, and layering 4G, and on introducing new capabilities across 1,500 mobile sites within Ericsson’s managed network. The primary objective is to improve network coverage, service quality, and overall capacity across Ethiopia.
As part of this modernisation, outdated infrastructure will be replaced with cutting-edge technology to enhance 4G coverage and capacity, while also extending the operator’s 5G services, which are essential to fostering high-speed connectivity in Ethiopia’s burgeoning digital economy.
The agreement emphasises enhancing digital inclusion, especially in underserved regions. Notably, the project will establish 75 rural solution sites to deliver mobile connectivity to communities without commercial power sources. Additionally, 502 existing 3G sites will undergo modernisation to become fully 4G-ready, addressing coverage and usage challenges in rural areas.
Within the Ericsson network scope, the project is set to introduce 2.8 million in new 4G capacity, bringing the total capacity to 4.1 million. LTE services will also reach an additional 157 towns, increasing the total number of connected towns to 276, thus enhancing population coverage by 45% and achieving 85% population coverage within the region.
Ethio Telecom highlighted that the upgraded network will bolster the growth of Ethiopia’s digital ecosystem, including vital national digital platforms such as Telebirr, ZemenGebeya, and Znexus. These platforms are revolutionising how citizens access services, conduct business, and engage in digital transactions.
The operator reiterated its commitment to ongoing investments in advanced technologies and strategic partnerships, aiming to establish Ethiopia as a premier digital hub in Africa.
