Ethio telecom and Chinese telecommunications technology company ZTE have expanded 4G population coverage to 92 percent within ZTE’s service circle as the two companies advance a major network modernization and expansion program across Ethiopia.
The progress comes under the Network Expansion and Modernization Agreement finalized during Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. Ethio telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru and a ZTE delegation led by Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Xie Junshi recently reviewed implementation of the program and discussed the next phase of cooperation.
The modernization initiative covers 879 sites within ZTE’s service area. So far, 462 radio access network sites have been modernized, including LTE layering at 180 sites, LTE upgrades at 248 sites and full software swaps at 102 sites.
The program has also completed upgrades to 237 microwave links and expansions at 103 IP RAN sites. Work is continuing on the remaining components, including the construction of 124 new sites, U2100 refarming at 272 sites and deployment of 115 rural connectivity sites.
The upgrades have helped increase 4G mobile population coverage within the ZTE service circle to 92 percent, strengthening the telecommunications infrastructure supporting Ethiopia’s growing demand for digital services.
The modernization program forms part of Ethio telecom’s Next Horizon, Digital & Beyond 2028 Strategy and is expected to support broader efforts to improve network quality, expand digital access and strengthen the infrastructure required for Ethiopia’s digital economy.
Ethio telecom and ZTE are also exploring measures to increase access to affordable smartphones. The companies plan to consider device financing solutions aimed at enabling more customers to acquire smartphones and make use of the expanding 4G network.
The initiative seeks to address the digital divide by combining wider network coverage with improved access to devices capable of supporting digital services.
The two companies also agreed to deepen cooperation on Green Operator initiatives, including the development of sustainable energy infrastructure for telecommunications operations. The initiative is intended to reduce the environmental impact of network operations while supporting Ethio telecom’s sustainability objectives.
Ethio telecom and ZTE said they will continue their partnership as the operator expands network capacity improves digital connectivity and advances its broader modernization program.
Source: Fana BC
