Ethio Telecom has announced a series of vendor agreements aimed at modernising its telecom network following discussions held during Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. The state-owned operator confirmed that a deal with Ericsson has already been signed, while negotiations with Huawei and ZTE are advancing toward finalisation.
The agreements form part of Ethio Telecom’s large-scale network expansion and modernization programme under its “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond” strategy. The initiative focuses on expanding infrastructure coverage, strengthening 4G capacity, advancing 5G rollout, improving rural connectivity, and upgrading both radio access and core network capabilities.
During MWC26, Ethio Telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru met with senior executives from Huawei, ZTE, Ericsson, and Nokia to explore advanced technologies designed to optimise network infrastructure and prepare it for emerging capabilities, including AI-enabled network functions.
The agreement signed with Ericsson includes network expansion, upgrades, 4G layering, and the deployment of new capabilities across 1,500 mobile sites managed by Ericsson. The project is expected to significantly strengthen 4G coverage and capacity while expanding Ethio Telecom’s 5G footprint.
The initiative also includes 75 rural solution sites designed for areas without commercial power infrastructure, aimed at improving connectivity and narrowing the digital divide in underserved communities. Additionally, 502 existing 3G sites will be upgraded to support 4G services.
As part of the expansion, LTE services will be extended to 157 additional towns, increasing the total number of connected towns within Ericsson’s network circle to 276 and boosting population coverage by 45%, reaching 85% population coverage in the region.
Ethio Telecom also held discussions with Nokia regarding the successful completion of a proof of concept (PoC) for new technology solutions. Both companies are now preparing to jointly launch an Innovation Excellence Centre to support digital innovation, skills development, and technological capacity building in Ethiopia.
Beyond vendor engagements, Ethio Telecom used the global telecom event to explore collaboration opportunities with international operators, technology providers, and innovation partners as part of its broader digital transformation roadmap.
