Ethio Telecom and ZTE are going forward with a major network modernisation and expansion programme designed to boost high-speed mobile connectivity across Ethiopia.
The initiative was a primary focus during a meeting between Ethio Telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru and a delegation from ZTE Corporation led by executive vice president and COO Xie Junshi.
According to the telco, the meeting was organised to assess the progress of a landmark expansion agreement finalised at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona in March.
The partnership has already broadened high-speed infrastructure, pushing national 4G mobile population coverage to 92% within the designated ZTE zone.
Comprehensive end-to-end upgrade covers a total of 879 sites. To date, engineering teams have completed 462 Radio Access Network(RAN) modernisation projects.
This technical overhaul comprises LTE layering at 180 sites, LTE upgrades at 248 sites, and a complete equipment swap at 102 locations.
Additionally, the firms have finalised 237 microwave link upgrades and expanded 103 Internet Protocol RAN sites.
The companies have stated that work is underway on the remaining phases of the modernisation schedule. This includes building 124 new sites, implementing U2100 spectrum refarming at 272 locations, and deploying 115 dedicated rural solution sites.
"These sites now serve as a robust digital backbone for the nation's evolving economy, enhancing connectivity for millions of citizens across Ethiopia," Ethio Telecom said in a statement.
Tamru emphasised that the project plays a vital role in hitting the company's Next Horizon Year One targets.
Looking ahead, the CEO noted that the next phase of expansion will involve even more demanding targets, calling on ZTE to maintain its strong support. The strategic alliance aims to deliver infrastructure upgrades efficiently and sustainably to meet the country's surging demand for high-quality data.
In a bid to bridge the digital divide, both executives agreed to launch innovative device financing schemes to make smartphones more affordable. Increasing consumer access to hardware is viewed as a top priority to maximise the impact of the new 4G network and support the nation’s rapidly growing digital society.
Green initiatives also topped the agenda. The two operators are collaborating on sustainable energy infrastructure to cut the carbon footprint of local telecom operations.
Ethio Telecom stated this move reflects its commitment to building a resilient, eco-friendly network aligned with global environmental standards.
Junshi commended Ethio Telecom’s rapid growth and strategic vision. Both parties reaffirmed their long-term commitment to powering Ethiopia’s digital future through technological excellence.
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