Ethio Telecom Champions Digital Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities

Ethio telecom is committed to fostering digital inclusion for persons with disabilities in Ethiopia by expanding access to affordable connectivity, enhancing the accessibility of digital platforms and financial services, and partnering with key organisations to empower underserved communities through inclusive technology.

About Ethio telecom

Ethio telecom is Ethiopia’s national telecommunications service provider, with a legacy spanning more than 130 years. As a pioneer in the country’s digital transformation, the company provides integrated telecom services, including voice, data, digital finance and cloud solutions. Ethio telecom’s vision is to be a leading digital solutions provider, enabling a digitally empowered society across Ethiopia. Through extensive infrastructure investments, tariff reductions of up to 86%, and the expansion of 4G and 5G services, the company is driving high-speed connectivity and access to innovative services nationwide.

In May 2021, Ethio telecom launched telebirr, Ethiopia’s first operator-led mobile money service, which has become a key driver of digital financial inclusion. The company’s broader sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy places strong emphasis on empowering marginalised groups, including persons with disabilities, to fully participate in the digital economy.

Disability Inclusion Initiatives

Ethio telecom’s digital inclusion agenda is rooted in the belief that access to digital services is a fundamental right. The company has taken concrete action to address the needs of persons with disabilities and ensure that no one is left behind in Ethiopia’s digital transformation.

Key disability inclusion initiatives to date:

• Affordable connectivity: Specially designed voice, SMS and internet packages for persons with disabilities, offering up to 35% discounts and a range of flexible daily, weekly and monthly options. These are available via IVR, USSD and the Telebirr SuperApp.
• Inclusive digital platforms: In collaboration with the Ethiopian Center for Disability and Development (ECDD), Ethio telecom launched Minch 6768; a toll-free IVR and mobile app providing vital information on disability rights, employment, health and training in Amharic and Afaan Oromo. SMS content has also been introduced to serve the Deaf community.
• Accessible mobile finance: The telebirr platform offers inclusive digital financial services with IVR, USSD and app-based access. It includes voice-command functionality for people with visual impairments and other disabilities.
• Infrastructure and device support: Installation of fixed broadband and phone lines at the headquarters of the Charity Association for All Ethiopian Persons with Disabilities, along with the provision of smartphones to facilitate digital access.
• Assistive device donations: Donation of over 8.6 million Birr to support the distribution of wheelchairs, crutches, white canes and hearing aids to approximately 500 students with disabilities, in partnership with the Federation of Ethiopian Associations of Persons with Disabilities (FEAPD).

Planned disability inclusion interventions:

Ethio telecom has expressed their ongoing commitment to digital equity and empowerment for persons with disabilities. While many actions have already been implemented, the company continues to build on this momentum through:

• Continued strategic partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with local and international disability organisations to co-develop inclusive digital services and amplify impact.
• Ongoing service enhancements: Building on the accessibility features of telebirr and other platforms to further improve digital access for underserved and differently abled communities.
• Affordability and device access: Sustaining efforts to expand smartphone accessibility and maintain competitive tariffs, enabling more persons with disabilities to engage with digital technologies.