Ethio Telecom has expanded fourth-generation (4G) mobile population coverage to 92% across its ZTE network footprints in Ethiopia, as the operator continues a multi-phase programme to modernise the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.
The network upgrade, implemented with Chinese technology company ZTE, has been completed across 879 sites. The work covers radio access network (RAN) upgrades, transmission systems and Internet Protocol (IP) infrastructure, aimed at improving mobile connectivity and supporting demand for digital services.
Site upgrades completed#
Of the completed sites, 462 have undergone RAN modernisation. The breakdown includes:
- Long-Term Evolution (LTE) layering at 180 sites
- LTE upgrades at 248 sites
- Full network swaps at 102 sites
The programme has also delivered 237 microwave link upgrades and expanded IP RAN infrastructure at 103 sites. A further phase is underway, covering 124 new sites, U2100 spectrum refarming at 272 sites and 115 additional rural connectivity.
Leadership review and MWC agreement#
The progress was reviewed during a meeting between Ethio Telecom chief executive officer Frehiwot Tamru and a ZTE delegation led by executive vice president and chief operating officer Xie Junshi. The partnership follows an agreement signed at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona covering network expansion and modernisation in Ethiopia.
Device financing and green infrastructure#
Beyond network infrastructure, the companies are exploring smartphone financing models designed to lower device costs and encourage mobile internet adoption as 4G availability expands. Ethio Telecom is also working with ZTE on energy efficient telecommunications infrastructure under its Green Operator Program. The initiative will explore renewable energy and other solutions aimed at reducing network energy consumption and carbon emissions.
2028 strategy#
The modernisation programme is part of Ethio Telecom’s broader Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond 2028 strategy, which targets expanded connectivity and infrastructure to support Ethiopia’s digital economy. The operator said its collaboration with ZTE will continue across network expansion, device affordability and green infrastructure as it works towards its 2028 digital transformation goals.
