Ethiopia Boosts Connectivity as Ethio telecom Sign Deal to Modernize 1,500 Mobile Sites and Ericsson

Barcelona, Spain – Ericsson and Ethio telecom have signed a major agreement at Mobile World Congress 2026 to modernize and expand Ethiopia’s telecommunications infrastructure.

The partnership aims to strengthen network performance, expand coverage, and accelerate Ethiopia’s digital transformation by upgrading and deploying advanced telecom technologies across the country.

1,500 Mobile Sites Set for Upgrade

Under the agreement, Ericsson will upgrade and expand 1,500 mobile sites within Ethio telecom’s network. The project includes the deployment of advanced Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions, featuring cutting-edge technologies such as Massive MIMO radios, remote radio systems, and RAN transport infrastructure.

In addition, Ericsson’s microwave solutions will play a key role in boosting network capacity by modernizing existing links, increasing bandwidth, and establishing new connections for emerging network sites.

Expanding Connectivity to Rural Areas

A major focus of the project is improving digital inclusion. The initiative will:

• Upgrade existing 3G networks to 4G
• Expand services to rural and underserved communities
• Enhance network coverage, quality, and reliability

This effort is expected to bridge the connectivity gap and enable more Ethiopians to access digital services.

Supporting Ethiopia’s Digital Strategy

The partnership aligns with Ethiopia’s national digital agenda, including the ‘Digital Ethiopia 2030’ strategy and Ethio telecom’s ‘Next Horizon: Digital and Beyond 2028’ roadmap.

Frehiwot Tamiru, Chief Executive Officer of Ethio telecom, said the agreement highlights the company’s commitment to strengthening telecom infrastructure and delivering innovative digital services.

“This partnership reflects our dedication to advancing Ethiopia’s digital transformation by building reliable, high-performance networks that support national development,” she noted.

Long-Term Collaboration Strengthened

Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit East & North Africa at Ericsson, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two companies.

“Our collaboration with Ethio telecom represents a shared vision to build resilient networks and enable digital innovation that supports long-term growth in Ethiopia,” he said.

Ericsson and Ethio telecom have worked together for over 132 years, contributing to the evolution of Ethiopia’s telecom sector—from early fixed-line systems to modern mobile technologies including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G.

Driving the Future of Connectivity

This latest agreement is expected to:

• Improve network capacity and performance
• Enable next-generation digital services
• Support innovation across industries
• Accelerate Ethiopia’s transition to a digital economy

With this move, Ethiopia continues to position itself as a growing hub for digital infrastructure and connectivity in Africa.

SOURCE : Tech News Africa