Econet and Ericsson Set the Stage for Zimbabwe’s 5G Future with Groundbreaking Core Network Upgrade

Ericsson and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe have signed an agreement at Mobile World Congress 2025, Barcelona, Spain for the introduction of 5G Core functions, the necessary ingredient for the deployment of 5G Standalone (SA), an expansion of its core network capacity, and the introduction of Ericsson Cloud Core Exposure Server (CCES), Ericsson’s cloud-native service exposure function, to its network.

As well as upgrading the Radio Access Network solutions provided by Ericsson, in 2023, Econet modernized its core network to Ericsson’s cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core solution to support its 4G and 5G non-standalone (NSA) deployment and expansion. Now, it is adding 5G Core cloud-native network functions (CNF) which will enable it to introduce 5G SA on its network.

Thanks to the cloud-native transformation already undergone by Econet, the introduction of these new network functions to the existing solution is simplified. It also means the cloud-native core network delivers high levels of orchestration and automation for operational efficiency and has given Econet new capabilities such as the scalable deployment of cloud-based core network functions and dynamic adjustment of network resources.

With the addition of the 5G Core CNFs, Econet will have a network that can meet expected data traffic growth, boosts mobile broadband capabilities, opens up a new dimension of use cases, and evolves existing services as well as develops new ones for enterprises and individual subscribers so it can further monetize its 5G connectivity.

As part of the core network capacity expansion, Ericsson will provide Econet with lifecycle management for its existing and additional Ericsson Virtual Network Function (VNF) and CNF nodes. In addition, Econet will expand its existing Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) and Ericsson Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution (CNIS) to support workloads and further its ongoing cloud-native transformation to take advantage of the greater energy, resource and cost efficiency this new infrastructure brings.

The infrastructure expansion will leverage the Ericsson Network Manager (ENM) and Ericsson Network Intelligent Query Statistics (ENIQ) tools for fault and performance management, ensuring that Econet maintains a robust, reliable, secure, and scalable network while preparing for next-generation services.

Econet will also introduce Ericsson’s Cloud Core Exposure Server (CCES), that will enable Econet to securely expose core network capabilities to developers and ecosystem players through Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs). By integrating with Econet’s existing API platform, CCES will unlock innovative use cases and revenue opportunities, such as enabling partnerships with third-party applications and services. This solution is designed with cloud-native architecture and advanced security mechanisms, ensuring reliability and safeguarding Econet’s network.

Partnering with Ericsson on this agreement marks a significant milestone for Econet as we drive the telecommunications ecosystem transformation in the country. We look forward to enhancing our network’s scalability, reliability and efficiency while unlocking advanced capabilities like orchestration, automation, and virtualization. These capabilities pave the way for new services and revenue streams, driving growth for Econet and enhancing the digital experience of our customers.

– Roy Chimanikire, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe

We are honored to partner with Econet Wireless Zimbabwe while they embark on their telco cloud journey. Our cutting-edge solutions will prepare the network for 5G Standalone and will provide next generation services that empower them to meet rising data demands while enabling scalable and secure network capabilities. Together, we are paving the way for advanced connectivity and groundbreaking opportunities in the region in line with Ericsson’s #AfricaInMotion vision.

– Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head of Ericsson Central and Eastern Africa, Ericsson Middle East and Africa

Building on their longstanding relationship of more than 27 years, the latest agreement between Ericsson and Econet supports the digital infrastructure goals of Smart Zimbabwe 2030 and reinforces their commitment to enabling the future of connectivity across the country.