Ethio telecom and British International Investment Explore Partnership to Boost Ethiopia’s Digital Economy

Ethio telecom  has announced that it recently held high-level strategic discussions with British International Investment (BII)  aimed at advancing Ethiopia’s digital transformation and sustainable infrastructure development. The meeting was led by Ethio telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru and BII’s Managing Director and Head of Africa, Christopher Chijiutomi.

During the session, Frehiwot Tamru highlighted Ethio telecom’s transformation journey and its growing role in supporting Ethiopia’s socio-economic development. She described the company as one of the fastest-growing digital operators in the region, noting its transition from a traditional telecom provider into a broader digital services enabler driving inclusive and sustainable growth.

The CEO also outlined the company’s strategic shift toward building a platform-driven digital economy. This includes the development of an integrated ecosystem combining cloud services, modular data centers, artificial intelligence applications, the telebirr fintech platform, e-commerce solutions, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and expanded connectivity networks.

According to Ethio telecom, this integrated approach represents a move toward an enterprise solution model designed to support a mobile-first economy and accelerate digital transformation across multiple sectors. The initiative is expected to enhance digital inclusion while contributing to long-term economic growth in Ethiopia and beyond.

Frehiwot Tamru further presented the company’s long-term roadmap, titled “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond 2028,” which outlines its vision for advancing digital innovation across Ethiopia and the wider African continent. She emphasized the company’s openness to partnerships that can help scale these ambitions.

Representatives from British International Investment noted their ongoing efforts to support sustainable and green infrastructure projects across Africa, identifying Ethiopia as a key strategic market. They highlighted their collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders to mobilize investment that supports economic growth and sustainability.

Both parties concluded the discussion by emphasizing their shared commitment to advancing climate-resilient digital infrastructure, promoting green energy initiatives, and fostering inclusive digital development through potential future collaborations.