Ethio telecom and Ericsson Sign Network Expansion and Modernization Agreement at MWC Barcelona
Addis Ababa, March 5, 2026 (FMC) — Ethio telecom and Ericsson have signed a network expansion and modernization agreement aimed at strengthening Ethiopia’s digital infrastructure, the company announced.
The agreement was concluded at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and represents another milestone in the implementation of Ethio telecom’s three-year Next Horizon Strategy, which targets modernization and expansion of national connectivity.
The project encompasses network expansion, upgrades, 4G layering, and deployment of new capabilities across 1,500 mobile sites within the Ericsson network-managed circle. Ethio telecom stated that the initiative will significantly improve network coverage, capacity, and quality through the replacement of legacy infrastructure with advanced technology.
Modernization efforts will enhance 4G coverage and capacity while expanding the company’s 5G footprint to support high-speed connectivity essential for a digital economy.
The agreement also prioritizes digital inclusion beyond urban centers. It targets 75 rural areas with tailored mobile solutions designed to bridge coverage and usage gaps. Additionally, 502 existing 3G sites will be upgraded to advanced 4G technology as part of the broader modernization drive.
Within the Ericsson-managed network circle, the project will increase 4G capacity by 2.8 million, bringing total capacity to 4.1 million. LTE services will be extended to 157 additional towns, raising the number of connected towns to 276 and boosting population coverage by 45 percent, reaching an overall coverage level of 85 percent in the region.
Ethio telecom noted that the agreement will strengthen Ethiopia’s digital ecosystem and support national platforms such as telebirr, Zemen GEBEYA, and Znexus, which are transforming digital transactions and service delivery across the country.
The company reiterated its commitment to investing in advanced technologies and strategic partnerships to position Ethiopia as a leading digital hub in Africa and deliver improved connectivity for all users.