Ethio telecom and Ericsson have celebrated a remarkable 132 years of historic technological partnership marking over a century of continuous collaboration in telecommunications development.
Ethio telecom and Swedish technology giant Ericsson have marked an incredible 132 years of continuous business and technological ties, highlighting one of the oldest corporate partnerships supporting Africa’s telecommunications development.
The milestone celebration brought together top leadership from both organizations, including Ethio telecom Interim CEO Tariku Demissie and a visiting Ericsson executive delegation led by Patrick Johansson, President and Head of Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa.
The historical relationship dates back to 1894, when Ericsson first began supplying telephone equipment to Ethiopia. Over the past century, the partnership has evolved hand-in-hand with the country’s communications infrastructure, bridging generations of technology from early fixed lines to 2G, 3G, 4G and modern 5G mobile networks.
During their high-level strategic meeting, both leadership teams reviewed the progress of ongoing modernization efforts. Building on agreements struck earlier in the year to upgrade approximately 1,500 mobile sites across Ethiopia under Ethio telecom’s “Next Horizon” strategy, the companies are actively expanding high-speed coverage while incorporating sustainable energy solutions, such as deploying renewable, off-grid power to connect underserved rural base stations.
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As part of their shared vision for Ethiopia’s digital future, the two companies agreed to deepen collaboration in cutting-edge technological fields. This includes integrating network automation, artificial intelligence-powered digital frameworks and end-to-end optimizations designed to elevate service quality and enrich the customer experience.
Reaffirming Ericsson’s long-term commitment during the landmark commemoration, Patrick Johansson praised the historic collaboration, pledging continued support for Ethiopia’s ambitious digital transformation and the expansion of its foundational digital economy.
