Ericsson at MWC2025: AI, 5G & Partnerships – The Blueprint for Africa’s Digital Future

Speaking from the Ericsson booth, Kassi emphasized the event’s overarching theme—‘Step into What’s Next’—highlighting the importance of collaboration in unlocking new opportunities across the digital ecosystem. She noted that traditional approaches to building networks must evolve to enable new revenue streams and maximize the potential of technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and 5G. 

Accelerating Digital Transformation in Africa 

Addressing Africa’s digital landscape, Kassi acknowledged the region’s rapid technological advancements, particularly in the post-pandemic era. She pointed out that industries are rethinking their business models and customer engagement strategies, with digital transformation playing a crucial role in driving economic growth. 

“Connectivity is the lifeblood of this transformation,” she stated, emphasizing the ongoing expansion of 4G and the increasing momentum of 5G deployments. While 4G remains the dominant technology, Kassi highlighted emerging opportunities to leverage 5G for bridging the digital divide, expanding fixed wireless access, and improving rural connectivity. 

Citing Ericsson’s latest Mobility Report, she projected that by 2030, 4G would account for around 35% of mobile connections in Africa, with 5G adoption rising to approximately 30%. While 5G adoption is currently concentrated in urban areas, she expects an acceleration in its rollout across the continent. 

The Role of AI in Network Efficiency 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a key component of Ericsson’s innovation strategy, with applications spanning network optimization, operational efficiency, and business growth. According to Kassi, AI has long been embedded in Ericsson’s products and manufacturing processes, and the rise of generative AI has further expanded its use cases. 

“In networks, AI enables optimization without excessive human intervention, leading to increased efficiency and automated network healing,” she explained. Additionally, AI-driven solutions contribute to cost reductions and sustainability by lowering power consumption in telecom infrastructure. 

Addressing the Digital Divide in Africa 

Despite significant progress, the digital divide remains a pressing challenge across Africa. Kassi stressed that bridging this gap requires a concerted effort from both the public and private sectors. 

“Connectivity is no longer a luxury—it is a basic need,” she asserted, advocating for policies that ensure spectrum availability and harmonized spectrum management. Ericsson, she noted, is actively collaborating with organizations such as Smart Africa, UNICEF, and UNESCO to improve digital access in education and financial inclusion. 

To extend connectivity to underserved regions, Ericsson is deploying solutions such as fixed wireless access and specialized rural network initiatives. These efforts aim to provide high-quality broadband services to all, ensuring that even the most remote communities benefit from the digital economy.  

“Bringing connectivity to rural areas is crucial, and Ericsson plays a key role in making that happen. Whether through fixed wireless access solutions leveraging 4G and 5G or specialized rural connectivity solutions, we’re committed to ensuring high-quality broadband reaches everyone, everywhere.” 

– Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit West and Southern Africa at Ericsson  

The Power of Partnerships 

Kassi also underscored the importance of industry alliances in addressing Africa’s digital challenges. Organizations like Smart Africa, which brings together multiple member states, play a pivotal role in fostering cross-border collaboration and policy alignment. 

By working together, industry leaders, governments, and international bodies can create an environment conducive to sustainable digital growth, she concluded, reinforcing Ericsson’s commitment to Africa’s digital future. 

“I think solving big problems really starts with having the right conversations. And through this partnership, we want to bring all thought leaders together. We want to bring all key stakeholders together. I think Ericsson has been playing this role for many years. We’ve been enabling Africa’s development for over 100 years, and that’s what we want to continue doing. We want to keep having these conversations about how to enable the digital transformation of the continent.”   

 – Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President and Head of Customer Unit West and Southern Africa at Ericsson