Ethio Telecom reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to connecting all Ethiopians, regardless of geographic location or the financial viability of infrastructure deployment. The company is prioritising inclusivity by ensuring that vital telecommunication services are accessible to every segment of the Ethiopian community, including those in remote and underserved areas.
Recognising the critical role of connectivity in driving social and economic development, Ethio Telecom is making significant investments in expanding its network infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. One of Ethio Telecom’s most significant initiatives in recent years is the deployment of 100 new rural mobile solutions across 305 kebeles. This impactful initiative has already brought telecom access to over 903,000 residents, which will improve their lives and opportunities.
“We believe that access to communication and digital services is a fundamental right, not a privilege. We focus on bridging the digital divide and empowering all Ethiopians, including those in the most remote areas. While financial viability is a consideration, our commitment to inclusion and serving all segments of society takes precedence. We are driven by a vision of a connected Ethiopia where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” Ethio Telecom stated.
The deployment of these 100 new rural mobile solutions is aligned with Ethiopia’s broader goals of achieving universal connectivity and leveraging digital technologies to drive socio-economic development.
These eco-friendly, solar-powered systems provide essential 2G and 3G services, with the potential for future 4G upgrades. Crucially, these solutions eliminate the need for rural residents to make long-distance travel to access telecom services, saving valuable time and resources.
The modular design of these systems allows for easy upgrades as technology advances, ensuring that rural communities remain connected to the latest digital innovations. These rural mobile solutions, however, are not only scalable and sustainable models for rural development but also solar-powered systems designed to operate efficiently in off-grid areas, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and minimising operational costs. This approach ensures that the solutions are both economically viable and environmentally friendly, aligning with global sustainability goals.
These rural mobile solutions provide a gateway to essential digital services in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and finance. This access empowers communities to improve their livelihoods, access vital information, and participate more fully in the digital economy.
Additionally, it empowers the community to access mobile financial services through its mobile money platform, telebirr, promoting financial inclusion. This allows rural residents to perform transactions, save money, and access micro-loans without the need for physical bank branches.
Ethio Telecom’s dedication to connecting the unconnected underscores its commitment to building a more inclusive and connected Ethiopia. The company remains steadfast in its mission to expand connectivity and digital services, ensuring that all Ethiopians have the opportunity to benefit from the transformative power of technology.