Ericsson and e& Egypt have solidified their long-term partnership with a new four-year agreement to modernise e& Egypt’s network infrastructure to bolster 5G capabilities through an extensive cloud-native transformation initiative. This collaboration is expected to deliver improved user experiences and accelerate the adoption of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services.
The agreement will enhance e& Egypt’s data management capabilities by transitioning from the Unified Data Consolidation (UDC) network function to a cloud-native Unified Data Management (UDM) system. Furthermore, it includes significant upgrades to core network applications such as the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), which enriches communication services, along with Ericsson Dynamic Activation (EDA) and Service-Aware Policy Controller (SAPC) for process optimisation and improved Quality of Service (QoS).
Previously, e& Egypt renewed its managed services deal with Ericsson, further solidifying this partnership.
As part of the contract, Ericsson will also enhance the network infrastructure that underpins the core network by deploying bare metal Cloud Native Infrastructure Solutions (CNIS) and Network Functions Virtualisation Infrastructure (NFVI).
This agreement covers the modernisation and expansion of Ericsson Billing, Mediation, and Ericsson Charging, specifically integrating the Charging Access Function (CAF). This advancement is critical for e& Egypt as it navigates the 5G landscape, creating opportunities for new business models and competitive marketing strategies.
These enhancements will optimise e& Egypt’s network operations, elevate service offerings, and capitalise on emerging use cases like 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT). Moreover, they will significantly boost network performance by accelerating the transition to a cloud-native architecture and preparing for 5G readiness.
Amr Fathy, Chief Technology and Information Officer at e& Egypt, stated, “This agreement not only extends our longstanding partnership with Ericsson but also drives the transformation of our network. Including key technologies will facilitate the adoption of VoLTE and allow us to introduce innovative services to our customers in Egypt. With Ericsson, we are building a more agile and future-ready network that will enhance service delivery and improve operational efficiency.”
Kevin Murphy, Vice President and Head of Ericsson North Middle East, emphasised, “This extended partnership with e& Egypt signifies a substantial advancement in our collaboration. Modernisation enables e& Egypt to accelerate VoLTE adoption, introduce new services, and lay the groundwork for a cloud-native, 5G-ready network. This cooperation underscores our mutual dedication to enhancing network capabilities through a structured and focused transformation strategy.”
Ericsson and e& Egypt have a rich history of collaboration, spanning various mobile technology generations. e& Egypt currently utilises Ericsson’s comprehensive Business and Operations Support System and Core Network Management (CNM) portfolios, benefiting from a clear roadmap and strategic guidance provided by Ericsson.
