Safaricom Ethiopia and UNICEF Unite to Empower Youth via Free SMS

Safaricom Ethiopia has partnered with UNICEF’s U-Report platform to offer free SMS services to U-Report members across Ethiopia for one year. This collaboration supports Safaricom Ethiopia’s commitment to empowering Ethiopian youth, especially in rural areas, by providing access to essential information and strengthening communication networks.

U-Report, a global platform by UNICEF, engages youth in social development issues like emergency response and advocacy. With over 36.1 million users in 99 countries, it’s a powerful tool for driving change. Launched in Ethiopia in January 2024, U-Report has already gained 17,000 active participants.

This partnership ensures access to critical resources in education, health, and social development, while promoting inclusion for those without smartphones. The free SMS service bridges the digital divide, especially for young people in rural areas, allowing them to stay informed and participate in decision-making processes.

At Safaricom Ethiopia, we continue expanding our 4G network to support community development, youth empowerment, and the digital transformation of Ethiopia. By offering zero-rate access to U-Report, we help youth engage, stay informed, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

– Excerpt from Safaricom Ethiopia’s Post on LinkedIn