Ethio Telecom, Ethiopia’s state-owned telecoms company, is exploring a partnership with China’s Shandong Hi-Speed Qianfang International Technology, Ogranak Beograd, to develop the country’s digital infrastructure. This collaboration is set to result in the construction of a hyperscale data center, a critical component in addressing Ethiopia’s growing demand for data storage and processing capabilities. The partnership reflects Ethio Telecom’s commitment to driving the nation’s digital transformation.
The proposed hyperscale data center will offer secure, reliable, and high-capacity data storage solutions to both local and international clients. Ethio Telecom highlighted that this facility will cater to the increasing data needs across key sectors such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce, further supporting the growth of Ethiopia’s digital economy. This initiative underscores the telecom’s strategic focus on enhancing the digital landscape in the country.
In addition to the data center development, Ethio Telecom has been accelerating its network expansion efforts. The company recently announced the expansion of its 4G mobile network to 966 sites, while the 3G network has been extended to 682 locations. This expansion has led to an increase in accessible 4G cities and districts, rising from 300 to 424, significantly improving connectivity and service quality across Ethiopia.
Ethio Telecom has also made considerable progress in its 5G network rollout. The number of 5G stations has grown to 189, with the network now available in four regional capitals. The company is actively working on expanding 5G coverage to additional cities, aiming to enhance Ethiopia’s capacity for high-speed, next-generation connectivity, a key driver for innovation in various industries.
This ongoing investment in digital infrastructure is part of Ethio Telecom’s broader strategy to strengthen its telecoms network and ensure high-quality service for customers. The network improvement projects, including the expansion of 4G and 5G networks, are designed to meet the growing demands for data and digital services across the country, particularly in underserved regions.
With the construction of the hyperscale data center and the ongoing network improvements, Ethio Telecom is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s digital transformation. These efforts will not only support the country’s economic growth but also enhance its competitiveness on the global digital stage.